In Franz Kafka's "Letters to Milena," he explores the profound nature of sleep, depicting it as a pure and innocent state. Sleep is portrayed as a refuge from the burdens of reality, offering solace and a break from the complexities of life. This innocence contrasts sharply with the experience of sleeplessness, which Kafka associates with feelings of guilt and unrest. The sleepless individual grapples with their thoughts, unable to escape the weight of their conscience.
Kakfa's reflection suggests that while sleep provides a necessary reprieve from the tribulations of existence, the absence of sleep evokes feelings of guilt and self-reflection. The sleepless man becomes trapped in a cycle of anxiety and self-accusation, emphasizing the stark dichotomy between the freedom sleep offers and the entrapment of wakefulness. This insight into the human psyche highlights the significance of both sleep and sleeplessness in shaping our experiences and moral standings.