Kundera posits that true authenticity is unattainable when we are conscious of being observed. When we know someone is watching us, our behavior naturally shifts to meet their expectations, compromising our genuine selves. This need for social approval leads us to drift away from our real thoughts and actions, ultimately resulting in dishonesty, both to ourselves and others.
The essence of living in truth, according to Kundera, hinges on the absence of an audience. To be truly genuine, one must navigate life without the pressure of external witnesses, allowing for actions that reflect one's true self rather than a performance shaped by the expectations of others.