The quote from Joseph Heller's "Catch-22" reflects the paradoxical nature of hope and responsibility. It suggests that when people are given a glimmer of hope, they begin to nurture expectations, which, if unfulfilled, can lead to disappointment. This dynamic creates a sense of blame directed at those who have instilled that hope, illustrating the heavy burden of influence that individuals can carry in such situations.

Heller’s insight underscores the complexities of human emotions and interactions. The idea that hope can result in unhappiness points to the pitfalls of optimism when confronted with reality. It serves as a commentary on how leaders and figures of authority can inadvertently set people up for disillusionment, emphasizing the importance of managing expectations and the profound impact of one's words and actions on others.