In Milan Kundera's "The Unbearable Lightness of Being," the protagonist reflects on the weight of living under another's constant oversight. For seven years, his life was dictated by her presence and demands, making him feel as though he was physically constrained, unable to move freely or pursue his own desires.
Upon gaining independence, he experiences a profound sense of freedom and joy. This newfound lightness symbolizes a shift in his existence, illustrating the contrast between the burdens of attachment and the liberation that comes from breaking free. It suggests a deeper philosophical exploration of existence and personal autonomy.