Kakfka's Metamorphosis

Franz Kafka’s, “Metamorphosis”, is arguably one of the most eccentric, yet exemplary literary works ever published. Kafka uses science fiction to provide insight into the mind of Gregor Samsa, a young man who seems to have fallen into the pits of life’s endless routine. As the story begins Gregor is mysteriously transformed into a large grotesque insect, this represents the insecure feelings he feels about himself. As a selfless, very dutiful man Gregor works extremely hard at a job he truly despises just to support his sister and parents with whom he lives. Betrayal, escape, and self sacrifice are among the many themes explored through Gregor in this truly one of a kind story. As Sheldon Goldfarb, a doctor of English and published critic, so bluntly states, “ The Metamorphosis” is a depiction of the helplessness and disgusting nature of the human race.”

Admittedly, after reading this story for the first time, I could not help but question the acceptance of “Metamorphosis” as a serious literary work. For one, the

Again Goldfarb and I are in agreement that in several ways Gregor is indeed better off as a bug. “He has no friends or lovers or social life; in the evenings he stays home and during the day he is off to his alienating job.” Goldfarb says. At least when he is an insect Gregor is able to break this destructive routine. It also allows him to see his unappreciative family for what they really are. Despite being the flesh and blood of Gregor, his mother and father seem far to eager to disown their son after his transformation. Gregor’s repulsiveness “....means he has to remain in his room, a prisoner, completely isolated.”(Goldfarb) But one could definately argue that this isolation is not too different than how he felt when he was human.

idea of someone turning into a bug was a little too far-fetched and unrealistic to be taken serious. However, this opinion of mine would change after I was forced to read and interpret this story thoroughly. Upon closer inspection of detail and symbols I’ve concluded that ‘metamorphosis” is honestly one of the best stories I’ve ever read.

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