The Czech Republic with the Unbearable Lightness of Being

“We live everything as it comes, without warning.”–Milan Kundera, The Unbearable Lightness of Being

• Here’s what happens:
  • Here’s the story of a handful of unfaithful lovers seeking happiness, fulfillment and self-knowledge. Though I never cherish the idea of cheating–especially as someone on the verge of taking marital vows–these characters were less the typical shallow pleasure-seekers and more just people who didn’t understand themselves or their world enough to successfully commit to their partners. And you can scarcely blame them. Set in Russian-invaded Czech Republic, it’s a confusing time!
• It’s good because:
  • New Year’s is usually a time where people make a concentrated effort to do things that are good for them. Eat well, exercise, clean. This book seemed like one of those books I was supposed to read, Kundera an oft-referred-to staple in my literary journey. So I chose this as my “supposed-to-read” book for this resolution era, expecting it to be dry or hard to understand. However it was easy to read while still being philosophical, it was challenging while still being relatable. It was an unexpected and thoughtful read. It was beautiful.
• Read if:
  • Like I said, Milan Kundera is a classic and iconic writer who is frequently discussed in literature. If you are someone interested in reading these important authors, and would prefer to do so without a mind-numbing headache, I recommend this book. It felt like an important and enlightening literary milestone, but never felt like a chore or homework assignment.

Up next: China with Susan Barker’s The Incarnations!