The concept of "Kitch" originates from a German term used in the mid-nineteenth century, which has since been adopted into various languages. It embodies a form of aesthetic that exemplifies the total denial of undesirable aspects of existence, referred to metaphorically as "stools"—symbols of unacceptability. This idea illustrates a tendency where individuals behave as though repugnant realities do not exist, creating a superficial semblance of harmony that lacks genuine reconciliation.
In Milan Kundera's "The Unbearable Lightness of Being," this notion of Kitch emphasizes a rejection of the complexities and imperfections inherent to human life. It stresses a longing for a world purified of discomfort, leading people to overlook or ignore substantial truths. This denial signifies a fundamental disconnect from reality, highlighting how the beauty and artistry can sometimes mask deeper existential issues. The aesthetic becomes a refuge for those who wish to escape the challenges of existence.