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macarxna_'s review against another edition
dark
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
4.0
claudiashelf's review against another edition
dark
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
❝ I cannot make anyone understand what is happening inside me. I cannot even explain it to myself. ❞
Before jumping to the story, the first thing I noticed was how the ‘most’ publisher decided to put bugs on the cover, despite Franz Kafka’s opposition to the idea. He believed that the book represented how humans feel their insignificance, so it’s upsetting that his request was ignored, which was quite disappointing.
Back to the topic, “The Metamorphosis” is a thought-provoking exploration of human nature and relationships, as well as a critique of capitalism. The emotional impact of the story resonated deeply with me, even bringing me to tears. Kafka’s ability lies in seamlessly blending the absurd with the profoundly human, creating a narrative that is impossible to forget.
And what struck me the most about “The Metamorphosis” was its ability to evoke both empathy and unease simultaneously. I’ve read other work from Kafka, and I believe, Kafka’s work forces readers to confront uncomfortable truths about the human experience and consider their roles within society.
Despite its peculiarity, this book is worth reading because of its originality and uniqueness. Although most of the stories are not my cup of tea, I still found them compelling and It’s a type of literary journey that stays with me long after I’ve finished reading, inspiring introspection and leaving a haunting impression.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Body horror and Animal cruelty
leefybeaf's review against another edition
3.5
If Gregor was a member of my family and he turned into a cockroach-beetle-thing, I'd take care of him.
Thanks, Kafka, for making me sad for a bug.
Thanks, Kafka, for making me sad for a bug.
amna_a541's review against another edition
dark
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
saartje12345's review against another edition
dark
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
alexdoubt's review against another edition
2.0
I see why it's a classic, but it's not an enjoyable story.
From a literary standpoint, I can see how people explore themes of isolation, human nature, maybe the father issues or the capitalist mindset. It's vague enough to be open to interpretation, and character interactions do change as the story goes on. The writing is fine? So, if you're practicing any kind of literary analysis or needed to read this for a class, I get it. It's short, easy to understand, and it's probably a great text to use in those contexts.
However, I'm not scholarly in my reading. I just go off, "Was it enjoyable? Did it give any feels?" and, my answer to that is... not really. Kinda boring as a story. Sad and tragic and leaves little hope for humanity if it is a commentary on it. It's weird, but not in an overly interesting way.
It's meh.
From a literary standpoint, I can see how people explore themes of isolation, human nature, maybe the father issues or the capitalist mindset. It's vague enough to be open to interpretation, and character interactions do change as the story goes on. The writing is fine? So, if you're practicing any kind of literary analysis or needed to read this for a class, I get it. It's short, easy to understand, and it's probably a great text to use in those contexts.
However, I'm not scholarly in my reading. I just go off, "Was it enjoyable? Did it give any feels?" and, my answer to that is... not really. Kinda boring as a story. Sad and tragic and leaves little hope for humanity if it is a commentary on it. It's weird, but not in an overly interesting way.
It's meh.
jennariggle's review against another edition
funny
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.0
inhio's review against another edition
dark
emotional
reflective
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0