Vertigo is described as more than just the fear of falling; it represents a deeper emotional experience. It encapsulates the haunting sensation of emptiness beneath us, drawing us in with its allure. This feeling can provoke a yearning to embrace that emptiness, highlighting the internal conflict we face when confronting our fears.

In essence, vertigo signifies a complex interplay of desire and fear. It illustrates how we often defend ourselves against the tempting pull of the unknown, suggesting that there is a profound relationship between our fears and our desires. Kundera's insight invites readers to explore this tension within themselves.