Metamorphosis

Book Name : Metamorphosis
Author : Franz Kafka

What is it about : Gregor, a busy body, loyal company man and dedicated worker, known for his punctuality, diligence and considerations for others, woke up one morning after a particularly bad dream, found himself transformed into a giant bug (man size). Unable to get out of bed, maneuver pass his door and get to work, his family and company came knocking on the door for answers. Thus unfolding this classic "Kafkaesque" tale of Gregor's dilemma, broken dreams and eventual bitter end.

Some thoughts after having read the book : Although a short tale, Kafka showed all his talent for describing claustrophobia, frustration, fear and hopelessness when one had been trapped in surreal circumstances; in this case, a human trapped inside the body of a bug. Gregor tried so hard to scream out all his unusual sensation, desperation and annoyance yet all but unheard and to no avail, as he was not able to communicate in any sensible way these emotions - think being cast a voodoo spell and buried alive, then one would get the idea.

Would I recommend this book to you : A good introduction to Kafka and his technique in creating his hallmark "kafkaesque" atmosphere : one long exclamation of "WHAT'S HAPPENED TO ME ?!" A delightful but scary tale - I would not like to be in Gregor's shoes.