The Metamorphosis

Overall rating :

Genre: Essentialism, Absurdism, Alienation

Theme: Human worth in this world is conditional. One is valued for what one is able to provide, not what one feels.

Setting of the story: A salesman Gregor Samsa wakes up one day, finds himself transformed into a large bug like creature.

Author: Franz Kafka

Through Gregor Samsa’s shocking transformation into an insect, Kafka reveals how quickly a person can lose their value when they are no longer seen as useful. Gregor’s physical change reflects his emotional state long before the transformation, he already feels trapped by his job, burdened by responsibility, and disconnected from his own desires.

As the story progresses, Gregor’s family gradually withdraws their love and compassion, showing how conditional their support truly was. His transformation exposes the fragility of family bonds and the harsh reality of a society that prioritizes productivity over humanity. In the end, Gregor’s death brings relief rather than grief, emphasizing the tragic consequences of alienation.

Overall, The Metamorphosis suggests that when individuals are reduced to their economic function, they risk losing their identity and sense of belonging. Kafka leaves readers questioning what it truly means to be human and how society treats those who can no longer meet its expectations.

"Humans are God's nihilstic thoughts."

~ Franz Kafka

About us

The writer is an IIT graduate in Mechanical Engineering who enjoys writing and exploring ideas across technology, business, society, and the everyday world.