Milan Kundera’s The Book of Laughter and Forgetting is a 300-page masterpiece that unites historical, philosophical, psychological, fictional, and autobiographical elements. Divided into seven parts, this book illustrates various stories that are beautifully interrelated through similar themes and moods.
Situated in Czechoslovakia, Kundera’s novel develops unique characters and plotlines that inform readers of the countries various take-overs, while simultaneously expressing numerous philosophical and psychological theories—most of which revolve around the themes of laughter and forgetting. The Book of Laughter and Forgetting critiques the very livelihood of human existence, portraying realistic and fantastical situations that shed a new light upon human mannerisms and mentalities. Consequently, readers are prompted to reassess themselves alongside the functions of the world— however they may view it. Although this book is extraordinarily intellectual, there are also many instances of humor and eroticism that keep the book balanced in a way that anyone can enjoy.
The Book of Laughter and Forgetting is easily one of the best books that I’ve ever read. I can confidently say that after the first chapter, I was blown away—immediately calling my friend to let her know how grateful I was for her recommending it to me. With its vast amount of information, Kundera’s book demonstrated an easy flow that seamed all of its literary elements together in the most spectacular way—making it easy and fast to both read and understand. All the historical, philosophical, psychological, and autobiographical information was always fantastic, and never derived from the initial storyline. The Book of Laughter and Forgetting was impeccable, and I have already added Milan Kundera’s other novels to my book list, as I am sure he will not fail to impress me.
Like my friend, I am going to highly recommend this book to anyone who loves critical thinking, unique story lines, or just enjoys an extremely well written prose.
madcritic 