The Unbearable Lightness of Being by Milan Kundera (1984)
320 pages, 5 stars
ABOUT THE BOOK: The Unbearable Lightness of Being follows two couples throughout their lives as they fall together, intertwine, and fall apart, in the historical context of the Soviet military occupation of Prague circa 1968.
The book is (in short) a look into the brain of a self-proclaimed womanizer. The protagonist loves his wife; she is the only woman in the world for him. But he can’t help himself from sleeping with other women. Philosophical, historical, and literary, Unbearable Lightness poses questions like: Can monogamy be flexible? If two people are physically unfaithful can they still belong entirely to one another? What does it mean to belong to the person you love, is it purely cerebral or physical or a combination? Do we all have unrealistic expectations of people, especially those that we love?
Y’all, there is a movie and it’s amazing. You should check it out after you’ve read the book, of course!
ABOUT THE OUTFIT: You are a hot mess. Though unable to keep your hands to yourself, you try to reign your passion in with this conservative cowl neck sweater.
Your skirt is uncharacteristically feminine. The polka dots make it even a little childish, which is how Thomas sees you. But at least it’s long enough to cover up your faux thigh highs. Not ready to commit entirely to a garter belt, these tights are a modern twist on the pin-up girl look.
A seductress lies hidden behind that professor-like exterior. This black lace demi-cup is a tribute to 60s lingerie without the pointiness (that was never sexy!). This red lip palette from MAC runs the gamut of engine red to more neutral pinks and mod browns, a different color for every infidelity. Pair your bright mouth with this tinted moisturizer, which will work to even out your skin tone when you’re green with envy at your husband’s betrayal.
These vintage boots are perfect for walking Anna Karenina, and well, they are just really freaking cute. Top it all off with this bowler hat—Thomas thinks it’s sexy and it makes you feel powerful.
