The characters in Margaret Atwood's "The Blind Assassin" struggle with the expectations placed on them by their father. They are caught in a conflict between wanting to live up to his ideals and their own desires for freedom and individuality. This internal struggle fosters feelings of disappointment, not only in themselves but also in their father, who holds certain hopes for their futures.

This tension illustrates the weight of societal and familial obligations that often stifle personal aspirations. The phrase "lumpy, enervating burden of the mundane" captures their resistance to a life that feels trivial and unfulfilling, highlighting their desire to break away from conventional paths and seek deeper meaning in their lives. Their journey reflects a broader examination of individuality versus duty, a central theme in the novel.