Book – The Metamorphosis
Author – Franz Kafka
Genre – Fantasy fiction, Absurdist fiction
The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka is one of the best metaphorical novellas. One fine morning the protagonist of the story, Gregor Samsa discovers, that he has metamorphosed into a horrible insect. Through the consequences of the transformation, the story briefs the change in human relations and emotions with time.
My views on the story:
1. Think of yourself : We sacrifice a lot for others because they are important. On the other hand, we think we are just as important as they are to us.
Gregor was valued until he was able to serve his family’s interests.
2. The Public Image is rarely important : Gregor was trying to adapt to the changes that happen to him. Instead of cooperating, his family members isolated him to suffer in silence alone.
Gregor’s external appearance was embarrassing them. They just wanted him to be locked in the room so that no one saw him. Their public image was more important than the sufferings of Gregor.
3. Value what you have : You need teeth to eat, and it was impossible to perform anything with toothless jaws. Gregor was tired of his monotonous life traveling all day, remembering the train time tables. But he was terrified after learning this that he can’t do anything like before. He was missing the days when he was able to communicate with others but take it for granted.
4. People only think of themselves : Gregor’s family was not understood his terrible experience as an insect. Even after knowing that their only bread earner is gone, no one came to help Gregor or his family.
If we think deeply, we will understand that when some unavoidable circumstances occur, we first take it spontaneously, but with time if it’s not convenient then, we just want to obliterate it.
Gregor and his transformation as a metaphor show the consequences when we lose our abilities.
The writing style is simple and articulate. It shows the hard truth of life in such an unusual way. But the story is full of melancholy.
Moreover, we should live our life fullest and not for others. Otherwise, one day we may find ourselves in the same place as Gregor.