The discussion revolves around the difficulties in applying the operator R to the basis vectors |bj> in an N-dimensional linear vector space. The user successfully derived the matrix representation of R but is confused as it does not yield the expected results, specifically that R|bj> should equal |b(j+1)>. Instead, they observe incorrect behavior resembling R|bj> = |b(j-1)>. Participants suggest verifying the matrix multiplication process and clarify the correct representation of basis vectors, emphasizing the importance of mastering matrix operations. The user acknowledges errors in their understanding of the matrix and basis vectors, indicating a need for further clarification on these concepts.