Milan Kundera, in "The Book of Laughter and Forgetting," explores the idea that humor can create a disconnect between individuals and the world around them. He suggests that joking may serve as a protective barrier, preventing authentic connections and deeper understandings. This barrier can hinder emotional experiences, making it difficult for people to engage with their feelings or the truths of life.

Furthermore, Kundera posits that joking undermines love and poetry, which are rooted in sincerity and profound emotion. By relying on humor, individuals might evade serious matters, thus sacrificing the richness of human relationships and artistic expression. Ultimately, he warns that while laughter is enjoyable, it can also detract from genuine intimacy and meaningful communication.