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peyton_honeck's Reviews (220)
Franz Kafka’s Metamorphosis is a surrealist work about a man named Gregor Samsa who wakes up one morning to discover that he is, suddenly, now a giant vermin-like creature. It is often translated and imagined to be some sort of giant beetle or equally horrible insect. It is important to note that it never once discusses how he came to be in such a state. We have no context as to why or how he was instantaneously transformed into a giant insect in his sleep. He, however, doesn’t seem too concerned about his new body, he is more focused on how he is going to get to work! The main focus of the story, however, is on his family’s reaction to their hard-working, much loved son and brother’s new form. They are disgusted and horrified at his appearance, and when he finally dies from neglect, depression, and a wound in his shell they are relieved and decide to celebrate the occasion. I found the odd reactions, by both Gregor and his family, to be fascinating. The flat tone of the narration completely contrasts with the surrealist, impossible events and themes of the story.
If I could pick one book that everyone on the planet should read it would be this book. I have read it many times, starting in 7th grade. It is my mom’s favorite book and she gave it to me as a suggestion after I finished Harry Potter and didn’t think I could ever love another book as much as I do that one (I still don’t think I ever will, but there are many great books out there). So it will always remind me of her whatever happens in my life, but it is also obviously a great book in its own right. I will say nothing about the plot, characters, or setting because that has been talked about so many times before. What I will say is that this book is so so important for children to read when they can still remember what it is like to be Scout’s age and still naive enough to, like her, not understand the adult world. Then go back every few years. It will mean something new to you every time. As you grow up and as the world changes with you the meaning you find in the book will also change. I re-read this book for at least the 6th time in my life in 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Trump presidency, and BLM movement and I am reflecting as I write this review in 2023. A lot has changed since I first read this book in 7th grade and I think the time is fresh for another read through.
One of my favorite books of all time! Just read it. I promise you will have fun.
