Sunday, March 15, 2009

Metamorphosis

With a talk with Sue, I was recommended to read the book Metamorphosis, which tells the story of a salesman who finds himself transformed into a creature of sorts. His remaining family have to learn to cope with Gregor Samsa’s transformation while struggling through financial difficulties.

The narrative is most intriguing being perceptive of many quirks and observations, particularly of Gregor’s own awareness and actions. At times, one questions Gregor’s transformation and whether perhaps he is simply succumbing to a break down from his busy job and family’s financial difficulties, making for some interesting interpretations if one believes the latter.

I found the story intriguing as my curiosity got the better of me to find out the end. The presentation of narrative was rather long winded at times with a paragraph spanning across a page and a half, making for a difficult yet interesting read at times as it is most probably reflective of Gregor’s condition. Although, I did not find the ending entirely satisfying, concluding in a hollow and unfulfilling way.

Overall, Metamorphosis provides an intriguing way to interpret a story which may provide some inspiration in envisioning a Grimms’ tale. Notably, it recognises some of the psychological aspects of character

Kafka, Franz. (1996). The Metamorphosis and Other Stories. New York. Dover Publications.

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