The Metamorphosis

Franz Kafka was a highly regarded Czech novelist and short story writer. Many of Kafka's tales are allegorical; they feature lonely characters who encounter inexplicable situations and unfathomable administrative systems. It has been said that his writings highlight the absurdity of life. As such, his stories feature dark themes, such as isolation, shame, lack of sympathy, and apprehension. His prose is characterized by descriptions of agony, physical injuries, bewilderment, and surreal creatures. "Metamorphosis" is no different. Its scenes are full of gloom and despair, pointing to the origin of the term "Kafkaesque."