Franz Kafka, a renowned German-speaking Jewish novelist born in 1883 in Prague, is known for his exploration of existential themes. His quote, 'Reality is too heavy for most people to carry. So they borrow illusions, soft dreams, sweet lies, and call it happiness,' encapsulates the human tendency to escape from harsh truths into comforting illusions. Kafka's characters often grapple with feelings of isolation and confusion, mirroring the emotional struggles many face today. His complex relationship with his father deeply influenced his writing, often featuring intimidating authority figures. Despite requesting the destruction of his unpublished works, his friend Max Brod preserved them, allowing Kafka's influence to endure. The term 'Kafkaesque' has emerged to describe situations that are both bizarre and unsettling, reflecting the lasting impact of his insights on reality and happiness.