Metamorphosis

Introduction

Considered one of Franz Kafka’s best known works and of the 20th century, this novella narrates Gregor Samsa’s metamorphosis from a human into a bug. Franz Kafka was a Jewish Austrian-Czech, who lived to the age of 40. In his lifetime, he published three major novels and about a 40 short stories, all written in German. His work revolves around the themes of existentialism, anxiety and other forms of human suffering. Kafka was his own harshest critic which led him to burn nearly 90% of his work. He never finished any of his full length novels. The Metamorphosis remains one of his longest works known.

An essence of the novella

Gregor Samsa wakes up from a troubled sleep to find himself transformed into a bug. He finds it difficult to move from the bed, he turns, tilts and lies there awkwardly. He realises he cannot go to work in this state and despite the drastic change in his physique, all he can worry about is his profession and the consequences of his failure to turn up at work. He has been the sole provider for his parents, responsible for paying off their debts.

Soon his manager visits his house to check on his sub-ordinate. When the door is opened, the sight of a huge insect frightens both the family and the manager—but they eventually come to understand Gregor’s condition. The family is obligated to take care of him, especially his sister, Grete, who takes it upon herself to ensure her brother is comfortable, fed and looked after, and report his condition to the parents.

Review

While the story tells of a saddening turn of events in the life of Gregor Samsa, it blatantly exposes the realities of human nature if subject to desperation. Grete is seen as the sole person who understands her brother at first, but over time, she too loses her affection and begins to see him as a burden on a family already struggling to make ends meet. Gregor senses this more than anyone. He knows he’s a burden, feels deep shame and guilt, but is powerless to change his situation. He becomes increasingly lonely and emotionally detached as his family begins to avoid him.

It is interesting to note how Gregor had no difficulty in coming to terms with his new life as a bug, he doesn’t panic upon realizing he’s a bug—instead, he worries about how he’ll continue to support his family. He was used to a routine, and the sudden absence of that structure throws him into further distress as the days pass.

At the end of the novella, the family moves to a smaller house on the countryside after Gregor’s death, They come to realize they have been earning more than they thought possible—now that each of them contributes, unlike when Gregor alone supported them. Grete is described as having grown into a fine young woman, and the family begins to consider finding her a suitor. This subtly highlights the tragic reality: Gregor, in the end, was a burden. Ironically, after his metamorphosis, it is the family that truly transforms—into a stronger, more independent whole.

The book left a profound impact on me for months, I love how it invites multiple analysis and interpretations, all equally thought provoking. I give this book a solid ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐