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Metamorphosis

A BBC Radio 4 Reading

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Metamorphosis

Written by: Franz Kafka
Narrated by: Benedict Cumberbatch
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About this listen

Benedict Cumberbatch reads Franz Kafka's famous story of man-turned-insect, Metamorphosis.

Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile

After a night of troubled dreams, Gregor Samsa wakes to discover that he has turned into a huge, monstrous, cockroach-like creature, with an armour-plated back and multiple limbs.

Gradually, he comes to terms with his new state - but his parents and sister are horrified and increasingly revolted. To them, Gregor is unclean, verminous and entirely repellent, and as he becomes more and more of a burden, their horror turns to a terrible indifference....

First published in 1915, Kafka's surreal existential novella explores concepts such as the absurdity of life, alienation and the disconnect between mind and body. Read by Benedict Cumberbatch (Sherlock, Star Trek, The Imitation Game), this tale - often described as one of the greatest in the history of fiction - is chilling, captivating and darkly comic.

©2018 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P)2018 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd
Classics Literary Fiction

What listeners say about Metamorphosis

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    4 out of 5 stars

irritating music alert

I enjoyed the story and narration, but irritating musing before and end of every chapter, spoils the experience.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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Loved it

I had read the novel a long time back and I can say this is one of the few audiobooks I've listened to that does the book justice. Benedict Cumberbatch is such a great narrator!

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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    3 out of 5 stars

Great narration, sad story

Benedict's narration made the story captive.. I'd hoped something happy for Gregor in the end.

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Moving

Graphic, spellbinding and cold. Thoroughly enjoyed it till the end.
The narration by Cumberbatch is impeccable, as well.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars

Dark and Symbolic

The book means to say that everything is ok as long as life is ok. once there is some change, the whole world changes.

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1 person found this helpful

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harsh reality but a good example

it shows how selfish and self serving a family can be
getting rid of the guy as he wasn't useful anymore.

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Interesting take on family dynamics

When I started out with the book, the storyline felt quite lame, In fact, the entire book doesn't have any out of the ordinary plot. However, it does bring to light the complex dynamics of family. It reminded me of the quote - Blood is thicker than water. However as the family goes through hardships this bond is tested to its limits. One could even draw parallels of metamorphosis being akin to being different from the socially accepted norm be it physically, socially, culturally or intellectualy. In each of these cases, there would be similar strain on relationships and the true character of people around you would come to light.

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    4 out of 5 stars

A classic, short, and intriguing read.

The Metamorphosis is a profound exploration of human existence and alienation. This book reminded me of a quote from another work- Books are magic. They help you read from someone else's mind. This book exemplifies this beautifully.

The narrative begins with Gregor Samsa's shocking transformation into a gigantic insect. Despite his grotesque new form, Gregor retains his human consciousness. He can no longer communicate verbally, but his thoughts and perceptions remain vividly human. This unique perspective allows readers to delve deeply into Gregor's mind, experiencing his confusion, fear, and isolation firsthand.

Kafka masterfully uses Gregor's metamorphosis to explore themes of identity, family dynamics, and societal expectations. As Gregor becomes increasingly alienated from his family, the story poignantly illustrates the harsh reality of what happens when an individual is no longer seen as valuable. Gregor's family, initially shocked and concerned, gradually becomes resentful and neglectful, viewing him as a burden rather than a loved one.

The book is a powerful commentary on the fragility of human relationships and the conditional nature of societal acceptance. It challenges readers to reflect on their own perceptions of worth and the often-unspoken expectations placed upon individuals by their families and society.

Additionally Benedict Cumberbatch's narration on audible kept me engaged and turned into an enjoyable long drive.

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  • Overall
    3 out of 5 stars
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Not sure what it was

Story plot is unique, but rest of it doesn't make much sense. Good though that it was a short story. Did Kafka want to make us reflect on our treatment of our loved ones when they get old or sick? Not sure. Anything kind of doesn't make sense

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Marvellous

Benedict Cumberbatch did an amazing job. He was the cherry to this already wonderful story. Loved his perfomance and how well he did the impressions for each character.

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