The quote from Milan Kundera's "The Joke" reflects a profound skepticism toward the notion of solidarity based on shared shortcomings. The author expresses a strong aversion to the idea of forming connections with others through the acknowledgment of common flaws. Instead of fostering unity, such recognition reveals a distaste for superficial bonds rooted in a shared sense of moral or ethical degradation.

Kundera's perspective challenges the concept of brotherhood that is built on the foundation of mutual recognition of baseness. He views this form of solidarity as undesirable and "slimy," suggesting that it lacks authenticity and depth. Instead of solidarity in weakness, he longs for genuine connections that transcend mere acknowledgement of human imperfection, illustrating a deep inner conflict between personal integrity and the flawed nature of humanity.