In "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" by Ken Kesey, the character reflects on the pressures people face to conform to others' expectations. He suggests that society often compels individuals to act in ways that align with collective norms, rather than following their true desires. This creates a dynamic where people may suppress their individuality to fit into predefined roles.

The quote emphasizes the struggle between societal influence and personal autonomy. The protagonist illustrates how individuals can become trapped in a cycle of conformity, resembling a "catar" that reacts against those external pressures. Ultimately, it underscores the importance of self-awareness in resisting these pressures and maintaining one's identity.