Kafka Reading Response

The novella "Metamorphosis" by Kafka is a strange and unique work of fiction. I found myself feeling disturbed, confused, and a bit unsettled by the reading. Throughout the reading I had many questions, How did Gregor Smasa turn into a giant cockroach? Why wasn't he questioning this metamorphosis? How could he possibly be worried about work in such a situation and how did he think he would still be able to work? Why didn't he try to communicate with his family or try to show some sign that he understood them? Gregor's family and manager are the only ones reacting logically to the situation, at first, showing fear, disgust, shock, and dismay. His sister Grete is the only family member that seems inclines to help Gregor after his metamorphosis by feeding him and cleaning his room. However, later Grete becomes angry with Gregory and he gets less and less care. I felt bad for Gregor and his longing to rejoin his family as he watches them fall apart, slowing having to sell their belongings and work. Although, even though I felt bad for Gregor I also was frustrated with the fact that he did not try to improve his situation, or in some way try to indicate that he understands his family. I also found it disconcerting that Gregor's family never tries to help Gregor, or find someone who might have had a similar situation or might be able to fix. The situation is completely absurd but the family treats it as an unfortunate event, an illness, rather than an unexplainable situation that should be looked into further.  The characters are unusually calm and unquestioning, and mostly don't act particularly surprised by the event. I found these reactions by Gregor and his family to the situation unsettling and abnormal. I found the reading overall depressing, especially as Gregor dies from starvation and neglect feeling unhappy and abandoned, only ever wanting to enjoy his family's company. While the novella seems to end on a happy note, with the family realizing how good they have it and thinking about the future, I find it disturbing that they are so unaffected by Gregor's passing, their son and brother has just died, yet instead of grieving they are happy that they can finally move ahead with their lives. I will admit, it was not a reading I enjoyed much.