The Metamorphosis, by Franz Kafka (1915)

I once read that Franz Kafka expressed feelings that he was a repulsive and ‘ugly’ person. He described himself a burden and felt alienated (mentioned in Conversations with Kafka 1971, Diaries of Franz Kafka 1910-1923, and personal letters).

I personally think this story, The Metamorphosis, reflects this and perhaps the book is painting a picture of how he viewed himself.

We have no reason why it occurs, but one day Gregor Samsa wakes up having undergone a metamorphosis into an insect-like creature. We learn about his life before this change, particularly his job and relationships with his family members.

I like to think I understand the family’s reaction at first: if I woke up one day to find my partner suddenly a creature, I think I would initially be shocked and horrified too. But for all members of his family to be so repulsed and not relenting, it’s a hard read. I found it emotional, especially when he clings onto the portrait and starts to forgets who he is.

Again, although we don’t know how or why the metamorphosis occurs, I believe Kafka was telling us a story about how he felt and the best way to do that was describing how a lot of people react to a sudden appearance of an insect in their house.

This is a short story, well written, and powerful.