"The Metamorphosis" (Franz Kafka)

"The Metamorphosis" by Franz Kafka is a novella about Gregor Samsa, a traveling salesman who wakes up one morning to find himself transformed into a large insect. The story explores themes of alienation, guilt, and the human condition as Gregor's family struggles to cope with his transformation. His physical change isolates him from society and his loved ones, highlighting feelings of helplessness and loss of identity. Ultimately, the story reflects on the burdens of existence, the nature of personal responsibility, and how society perceives and isolates those who are different.