In the story "Matilda" by Roald Dahl, a father responds to a child's request with a sense of reality. He emphasizes that certain feats are beyond anyone's capability, suggesting that while imagination is powerful, there are limits to what can be accomplished. This illustrates a balance between dreams and practicality.

The father's quick acknowledgment of the situation shows his understanding of the child's wishes while gently grounding them in reality. This interaction highlights the importance of fostering creativity while also recognizing the constraints that exist in the real world, a theme that resonates throughout the book.