Milan Kundera reflects on the allure of ancient cultures, expressing a deep sense of nostalgia and perhaps envy for their slower-paced histories. He points out that civilizations like ancient Egypt thrived for thousands of years, allowing their cultures to develop and flourish slowly over time. This contrasts sharply with the rapid pace of modern life, which often feels overwhelming in comparison.

Kundera suggests that the progression of a single human life mirrors the broader trends in human history. In the early stages, life is marked by stillness and gradual development, much like the lengthy periods of past cultures. As one matures, however, there is an inevitable acceleration, reflecting the ever-quickening pace of contemporary existence. This observation underscores the bittersweet nature of human experience and the longing for the tranquility of history.