The Joke

Interesting Facts

• The book explores the theme of political repression and the consequences of totalitarianism in Czechoslovakia.
• The main character, Ludvik, seeks revenge on his former friend for a joke that ruined his life.
• The novel is written in a polyphonic narrative form, where each of the main characters tells their version of events.
• The book was banned in Czechoslovakia after publication due to its criticism of the communist regime.
• The novel explores complex human emotions such as revenge, love, and forgiveness.