How Does Kafka Use Symbols In The Metamorphosis

Outstanding authors often use objects to represent ideas or qualities throughout their writing. These Objects are symbolic and the use of them is called symbolism. Symbolism allows the reader to penetrate the mystery of a work of art with greater insight. Franz Kafka’s story The Metamorphosis uses symbolism multiple times which makes the book interesting. In the story he uses the symbolism to point out specific details about Gregor’s past where he held great power and was respected, as well as how alienation caused his lack of relationships. Gregor has a picture old his old army days hanging on a wall up high. In the description of his kitchen it says “ On the wall directly opposite hung a photograph of Gregor from his old army days...in a lieutenant's uniform...a carefree smile on his lips, demanding respect for his bearing and his rank.” (Kafka 15). This picture symbolizes a time where Gregor held a high power position and …show more content…
Gregor has saved a clipping from a magazine of a woman, but not only just saved it he framed it. As Gregor wakes up to his physical change his surroundings were described “Samsa was a traveling salesman- hung the picture which he had recently cut out of a glossy magazine and lodge in a pretty gilt frame… lady done up in a fur hat and fur boa...upright and raising up against the viewer…” (Kafka 3). Gregor keeping and framing a picture from a magazine symbolizes his alienation from the outside world. Because of Gregor’s job and being focused on paying of his parent’s debt he doesn’t get any time himself. Not having the time to go out and communicate,mingle, and connect causes Gregor’s lack of relationships intimately and friendly wise. The framing the magazine clippin shows that Gregor has put himself in a state of being isolated from the outside world that he clings on to the woman in the picture because he doesn’t realistically have someone special in his