The Metamorphosis

The Metamorphosis
FRANZ KAFKA

The Metamorphosis tells the unsettling story of Gregor Samsa’s transformation into something entirely unexpected: “a monstrous insect.”

This is not just a novel about physical transformation but also a deep reflection on alienation and loneliness.

The listener will not only to enjoy Kafka’s incomparable style but also to confront the vital questions that only a masterpiece can provoke.

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Modern translation, easier to visualize

The words used in this audiobook feels very common and modernized, it felt like a story being told by a friend, less complex words, very conversation like structure, very much appreciated it. I somehow can't find the version of this audiobook in literature as I can't seem to find an exact word by word translation. I've went to Barnes and Nobles but I think they have the classic translation. Nonetheless, I love this version. Highly recommend it.

The OG "Would you love me if I were an insect?"

🪲 Kafka is the OG “Would you still love me if I were an insect?”
Well… the answer is no, apparently.
At least not when the individual’s family rushes to dismiss their humanity - which, honestly, makes me suspect they never really saw them as human in the first place. More like mechanical providers. Functional. Useful. Easily replaceable.
They were just waiting for the perfect excuse to disregard their feelings entirely.

🧠 Internalised Dehumanisation
It doesn’t help when the individual themself views their own self as unworthy —an “insect”— and slowly lets go of any love or self-respect.
Once that switch flips, the world doesn’t even need to push anymore. The collapse is internal.

🎭 Antagonists Everywhere
While the story definitely has several antagonists, I would argue that everyone takes turns wearing the villain cape. However, the biggest two stand out clearly:
• The sister, who slowly and methodically chips away at Gregor
• Gregor himself, self-resigned and submissively passive in his own life

📚 Shoutout to (in another version)
Susan Bernofsky whose translation and afterword were genuinely excellent, especially her choice to elevate Kafka beyond the literal level of words.
David Cronenberg for a thought-provoking introduction that nudges the reader toward a philosophical and metaphysical reading of what might otherwise feel like a stark, one-dimensional Kafka tale.
They actually got an additional star for this book.