In Milan Kundera's "The Joke," the narrator reflects on the multifaceted role that Lucie has played in his life. She has been a childlike figure, offering him comfort and solace when he needed it most. Lucie serves as an essential escape from his own struggles, embodying a sense of innocence and joy that the narrator craves.

However, despite her significance, the narrator acknowledges a crucial distinction: Lucie has never fully been a woman to him. This creates a complex emotional landscape where he values her presence yet recognizes that their relationship lacks a certain depth typically associated with adult romantic connections. Kundera's exploration of love and identity raises questions about the nature of intimacy and companionship.