...no one can do a thing about feelings, they exist and there's no way to censor them. We can reproach ourselves for some action, for a remark, but not for a feeling, quite simply because we have no control at all over it.
The quote from Milan Kundera's book "Identity" emphasizes the inevitability and inescapability of human emotions. Feelings are intrinsic and cannot be suppressed or altered by external forces or personal regrets. Rather, they arise spontaneously within us, reflecting our true selves and experiences, regardless of whether they align with social expectations or personal judgments.
Kundera suggests that while we might hold ourselves accountable for our actions or words, we should not blame ourselves for the feelings that naturally emerge. This concept highlights the distinction between feelings and actions, underscoring that authenticity in emotions contributes to the essence of our identity.