The Metamorphosis

A New Translation by Susan Bernofsky

De: Franz Kafka, Susan Bernofsky - translator

Narrado por: Edoardo Ballerini, Victor Bevine, Christa Lewis

"This fine version, with David Cronenberg's inspired introduction and the new translator's beguiling afterword, is, I suspect, the most disturbing though the most comforting of all so far; others will follow, but don't hesitate: this is the transforming text for you." (Richard Howard)

Franz Kafka's 1915 novella of unexplained horror and nightmarish transformation became a worldwide classic and remains a century later one of the most widely read works of fiction in the world. It is the story of traveling salesman Gregor Samsa, who wakes one morning to find himself transformed into a monstrous insect. This hugely influential work inspired George Orwell, Albert Camus, Jorge Louis Borges, and Ray Bradbury, while continuing to unsettle millions of readers.

In her new translation of Kafka's masterpiece, Susan Bernofsky strives to capture both the humor and the humanity in this macabre tale, underscoring the ways in which Gregor Samsa's grotesque metamorphosis is just the physical manifestation of his longstanding spiritual impoverishment.

©2014 Susan Bernofsky. Introduction 2014 David Cronenberg. (P)2014 Audible Inc.

Engaging and poignant! ..A must for workaholics.

Narration was performed beautifully. It was easy to drift off and allow the novella to spur visuals via imagination.

My 1st IPhone Audiobook

I ran across Franz Kafka's Metamorphosis on ITunes and began listening to it However it was only about half of the book so i searched for an Audiobook provider on the Internet found this site, joined, and the reward was the full reading of the book which I wholly enjoyed. Excellent production!

Thought Provoking Metaphor

Well, the introduction was not terribly engaging, the story itself is riveting and the follow up by the translator added depths and complexity to this English version. The story itself contains many fascinating reflections on the human condition and I’m sure there are many reviews that have discussed this better than I can do here.

Disappointed but entertained

For some reason I had never read metamorphosis. No clue why but I had it on my list to do. So when it showed up as a special deal I got the audio. Having heard about the story for years, I guess it’s almost impossible for it to hold up to its reputation. I did enjoy the story but I was annoyed with the family’s reactions. I’m fully cognizant that as a reader in 2022, I’m judging a story written for an audience 100 years ago. It’s still a worthwhile story and holds the reader’s attention, but I’m still amazed at its reputation in classical literature.

Sympathy for Insects

The Metamorphosis is possibly Kafka's most iconic work. It is the story of a man, the sole provider for his family, waking up to discover that he is now a giant bug. I wouldn't dare risk any spoilers for this, but if you've never experienced this story you are in for a real treat. Further, Edoardo Ballerini's narration really brings Gregor's plight to life. Very highly recommended!

Best Narrator Ever!

First and foremost Edoardo Ballerini is perhaps the best narrator I have ever heard. Perfect voice, perfect cadence and inflection. Just everything you want in a good narration was delivered. I will now search out all books with him as a narrator. Absolutely fantastic. The story was difficult for me. I felt bad for poor heir Samsa. Sad at the alienation from his family. Short but good book. Worth the few hours especially if you are looking for something quick.

Beautifully translated for the 100th anniversary

Would you recommend this book to a friend? Why or why not?

Absolutely. A must listen esp. for HS and college students

Who was your favorite character and why?

The sister because of her freak out scene.

What aspect of Edoardo Ballerini’s performance would you have changed?

He gives a very soft, sensitive read. Good. As a huge fan of the material I preferred another version. It's called Change by Chris Selna. Much more unexpected interpretation.

Could you see The Metamorphosis being made into a movie or a TV series? Who should the stars be?

It's already been two movies, a ballet, several plays

Love!

After reading the Metamorphosis it made me want to read more Kafka books! I thoroughly enjoyed it.

best of kafka

kafka at its best a joy to listen to recommended to anyone on a long ride or on a dreary winters morning

Good book and performance

I really enjoyed the book and the performance by the narrator. I recommend this book.