‘Metamorphosis’ by Franz Kafka

This week, I finished reading Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka. Written in 1912 and published in 1915, this short story carries a compelling psychological depth. The plot is deceptively simple yet profoundly moving.

It follows Gregor Samsa, a traveling salesman who wakes up one morning to find himself transformed into a monstrous insect. At first, he denies the reality, but gradually comes to accept his fate. His family, initially horrified and shocked, eventually comes to terms with this brutal truth. However, the burden of caring for Gregor in his new form becomes overwhelming, and his sister ultimately rejects him as her brother. The story ends with Gregor’s death—still trapped in the body of the insect.

Kafka never explains how Gregor undergoes this transformation, but the narrative invites rich psychological interpretation. Here are some key takeaways:

1. Life Offers No Guarantees.
   Change is inevitable, and living in the present is often the only viable choice. Gregor accepts his new reality but clings to his former identity, illustrating the mind’s eternal struggle between acceptance and denial.
2. Identity Shapes Relationships.
   Gregor still feels love for his sister and even plans to send her to music school. But she cannot reciprocate—she sees only the insect, not her brother. His transformation erases the emotional bond, reducing him to a burden.
3. Life Is Fragile and Unpredictable.
   Gregor longs for his family to remember him as he once was, but they gradually see only what he has become—a monstrous insect. Nostalgia proves powerless against the present reality.
4. Money Dictates Respect.
   In many households, financial contribution defines one’s worth. Gregor believes the comfort he once provided would earn lasting gratitude. Instead, his inability to earn a living renders him invisible, as the family becomes consumed by managing their cash flow.
5. You Are a Replaceable Cog in the Machine.
   The company’s chief clerk visits Gregor’s home to question his absence from work. Even as Gregor grapples with his transformation, his thoughts revolve around catching the next train and fulfilling his duties—highlighting how deeply ingrained our roles become.

Kafka’s story resonates on many levels. You’ll be struck by how masterfully he weaves apathy, empathy, and ignorance into the narrative. I truly enjoyed this book and continue to reflect on the haunting situation Gregor found himself in.