The quote from Margaret Atwood's "Cat's Eye" highlights the protagonist's struggle with societal expectations and established norms. While she understands the rituals and behaviors dictated by society, she finds them hollow and insincere, suggesting a disconnect between her inner self and the external pressures to conform. This realization creates a tension in her life, as she feels compelled to act in a way that feels disingenuous to her true identity.

This internal conflict reveals the complexity of navigating social roles, where the protagonist feels like an imposter in a world that demands authenticity while presenting superficial rituals. Atwood's exploration of this theme invites readers to reflect on the authenticity of their own behaviors and the societal constructs that shape them, suggesting that true self-expression often clashes with societal demands.