Oh, they're there all right," Orr had assured him about…
““Oh, they're there all right," Orr had assured him about the flies in Appleby's eyes after Yossarian's fist fight in the officers' club, "although he probably doesn't even know it. That's why he can't see things as they really are." "How come he doesn't know it?" inquired Yossarian. "Because he's got flies in his eyes," Orr explained with exaggerated patience. "How can he see he's got flies in his eyes if he's got flies in his eyes?””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Orr’s metaphor of “flies in the eyes” illustrates how personal biases blind people to reality.
In simple terms: Biases block clear perception.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and challenge your own blind spots.
Themes
perception
bias
war
absurdity
Mood
satirical
philosophical
Type
reflective
critical
When to use this quote
- critical thinking
- team discussions
- personal introspection
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
cognitive distortion
self‑deception
Questions to Reflect On
- What “flies” might you have?
- How can you see beyond them?
A Different Perspective
Changing deep‑seated biases is difficult.