In Milan Kundera's "Laughable Loves," the protagonist grapples with the concept of value in life, questioning what could justify resisting the temptation of suicide. He suggests that concepts like love and friendship may not provide the steadfastness or meaning needed to counter such despair. Rather, he views these relationships as inherently unstable, implying that they cannot serve as a solid foundation for one's existence.

The narrative reflects a deeper philosophical inquiry into self-worth and the difficulty of finding a reliable source of value in life. The protagonist's skepticism about self-love emphasizes the challenges individuals face in forming meaningful connections that endure beyond passing emotions. Ultimately, Kundera invites readers to reflect on the fragility of human relationships and the search for purpose in an unpredictable world.