In Milan Kundera's "The Unbearable Lightness of Being," the author presents the idea that love relationships function similarly to empires. Just as empires thrive on a foundational principle, so too do personal connections. When the core belief or value that fosters these bonds dissipates, the relationship is left vulnerable and ultimately faces decline.

This analogy highlights how the strength and longevity of love depend on shared ideals and commitments. Without these guiding principles, relationships may fade away, mirroring the historical rise and fall of great powers. Kundera suggests that understanding this dynamic is essential to navigating the complexities of love and connection.