In Carol Lee's novel "To Die For," the protagonist Emma grapples with her father's expectations, which remain unclear to her. This uncertainty leaves her feeling lost and overwhelmed, as she struggles to comprehend what he really desires from her. Instead of recognizing the shortcomings in her father's actions, Emma internalizes the confusion, believing it to stem from her own inadequacies.

This dynamic highlights the emotional turmoil ensuing from parental expectations and the impact they have on an individual's self-perception. Emma's sense of responsibility for her father's wants ultimately leads her to question her own worth, illustrating the complexity of familial relationships and the challenge of meeting perceived demands.