The Metamorphosis

The Metamorphosis is Franz Kafka’s unforgettable tale of alienation, identity, and the crushing weight of modern life. The story begins with Gregor Samsa, a traveling salesman who wakes up one morning to find himself transformed into a monstrous insect. As Gregor struggles to comprehend his new condition, he is forced to confront the harsh realities of his existence — the endless demands of work, the financial burden he carries for his family, and the emotional distance that has quietly grown between them. Kafka’s writing blends the surreal with the deeply human, creating an atmosphere both unsettling and heartbreaking.

As Gregor’s transformation isolates him further, the family’s initial concern turns into resentment and fear. The novella exposes how society often treats those who are vulnerable, different, or unable to “perform” their expected roles. Through its dreamlike imagery and sharp psychological insight, “The Metamorphosis” remains one of the most profound works of modern literature — a timeless exploration of identity, meaning, and the longing for acceptance. Its emotional power and unique narrative style have secured Kafka a lasting place in world literature.