The quote from Milan Kundera's "The Joke" highlights the way a shared sense of sadness or bleakness can foster connections between people. This shared emotion creates an atmosphere where individuals feel a sense of agreement, allowing them to bond in a more profound yet somber manner. The reference to "polite souls" suggests that this connection may be understood and accepted in social interactions, even if it stems from a darker place.

Kundera implies that such a connection, born from a mutual acknowledgment of fears and disappointments, is one of the simplest forms of bringing people closer. This pattern of convergence, fueled by a shared understanding of life's difficult truths, demonstrates how sometimes the most authentic ties can emerge from less than joyful sentiments.