The protagonist in "Like Water for Chocolate" experiences a profound sense of betrayal from those who were meant to guide him through the crucial moments of life, particularly during his sister's difficult childbirth. He reflects on how the knowledge he acquired from his teachers and his mother feels entirely irrelevant when faced with the urgency of the situation. The emphasis on academic learning, such as the names of planets and other subjects, starkly contrasts with the life-and-death stakes occurring in his family.

This disillusionment drives him to confront the failures of his upbringing, as he grapples with the inadequacy of the support system around him. His frustration suggests a deeper critique of societal norms that prioritize theoretical knowledge over practical, compassionate understanding. In these moments, he longs for guidance that would have empowered him to act and support his loved ones in their time of need, highlighting the limitations of an education disconnected from the realities of personal crises.