Book – The Metamorphosis
Author – Franz Kafka
Genre – Absurdist Fiction
Originally published in 1915
The book has been on my to-read list for a long time. I knew the story from long ago. But I wanted to read it for more curiosity. I started reading this book 20th this month. The first line of the chapter-1 hit my mind and thought. I stooped and think. Then continuing to turn the page one by one. Finished reading the first chapter in one sitting and then I stopped.
The next day I left for Cox's Bazar and St. Martin's tour. But I didn't forget to take the 'Metamorphosis' with me. I was obsessed to finish that as early as possible. Finally it's over and I'm sharing some thought upon The 'Metamorphosis'.
Metamorphosis" begins with one of the most iconic opening lines in literature: “One morning, when Gregor Samsa woke from troubled dreams, he found himself transformed in his bed into a horrible vermin” .
This starting line sets the check point of human life between reality and the absurd. The story is about a travelling salesman, Gregor Samsa, who wakes up one morning to find that he has turned into an insect. What follows thereafter is an allegorical narrative steeped in dark humour and surrealism. I found some aspects to the story.
The Transformation: When Gregor Samsa turn into an insect, the reaction of his family members (his father, mother, sister) who are depended on him now totally helpless for Gregor. Gregor slowly alienated by his all loved ones. At the end of Gregor's lonely death and the whole family gave up and started again with new energy. At this point I found myself hoping that one member of the family might show regret for the way he was treated, but that was not what happened. They moved on with their lives, relieved to be rid of their son/brother. What an Absurdism it is !
Allegory: The philosophy in this book will make each person think in a different way. My philosophical mind hits the insectile form of Gregor Samsa can be seen as a symbol of the dehumanizing effects of modernity. Also highlights the harsh realities of societal prejudices.
In conclude, Metamorphosis" is not merely a novella. It is an odyssey into the depths of the human psyche. This is definitely a worth reading. A good novel will make you feel the characters of the novel. I personally empathize with Gregor to the greatest extent. Because I learn about his new life at the same time he does, confront the same obstacles and emotions, it is easier to understand him.
I have already bought another Franz Kafka book 'The Trial' . Maybe I will start reading in a few days. Hope to write a review of it too.
For more Book Notes and Review : https://fahimmuntashir.com/book-notes
