The Joke

Summary

The novel «The Joke» by Milan Kundera tells the story of Ludvik Jahn, who, as a young student, sent a playful postcard with a political undertone to his girlfriend. This seemingly innocent act led to his expulsion from university and the Communist Party, as well as his consignment to a labor camp. Years later, Ludvik returns to his hometown with the intent to take revenge on his former friend and informer, but his plans do not unfold as expected. The novel explores themes of revenge, forgiveness, the irony of fate, and human nature, illustrating how one joke can alter a person's life.