Therefore, the narrative expresses the conflict between personal freedom and fascism through the jokes made by Stalin in creating order amid chaos. The characters choose jokes to make sense of their reality and render the fascist leader in the same context. The fictionalized Stalin is utilized to symbolize the state of affairs in Eastern Europe while blending existentialism with humor. Stalin appears as a character in a few vignettes that portray him as a jokester with a knack for sadistic humor. He reminisces on his relationship with his mother which reveals he was an unwanted child because she stared at his navel with contempt. The human navel also acts as a symbol for life as Alain considers the philosophical meaning behind it. Initially, he attempts to understand the erotic power or appeal of an exposed belly button as a fashion statement. The fascination with the female physique nudges Alain to contemplate the mystery behind the navel. Through humor, they find the means to convey their sentiments in acknowledging the insignificance of life. Dealing with mortality prompt the characters to express what they make of life as per their experiences. The characters self-analyze and contemplate the insignificance of life and the absurdity of human existence. Set during the Cold War, it delves into the nature of the human condition at a time of uncertainty. Insignificance (Motif)Įxistentialism is at the center of the narrative echoing the attitudes of existentialists such as Nietzsche and Sartre. Therefore, laughter is their chosen response in making sense in a senseless world.

Their tongue-in-cheek approach to Stalinism, life, and death highlight the existential thinking they choose to abide by.

The practical jokes and laughter may seem like their indifference to the oppressive regime and the Cold War however, the jokes are a reaction to a dire situation by a group of disillusioned and world-weary characters. The characters use humor to handle heavy subject matters that hound their reality such as death, war, and fascism. We are thankful for their contributions and encourage you to make your own.

These notes were contributed by members of the GradeSaver community.

Insignificant events