The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka shows various themes of isolation, guilt, and meaninglessness in the existence of Gregor in general. The family throughout the entire book, even before he tranformed into a giant insect, seemed to treat him more like a burdening worker rather than a son whom they love. Then, when our main character suddenly turned into a gigantic bug, these actions and feelings were intensified. Instead of showing compassion and sympathy for their son, the family acted very hostile towards the young man. The only string of hope in Gregor's life was his sister, Grete, and even then by the end of the story she abandons her efforts in keeping him alive and comfortable, and soon starts referring to him as "it." This is a prime example that even if everything seems fine, in the end all efforts are futile and pointless, for nothing has a meaning to anything. The parents even push their son into being ashamed of himself even though he had no part in his transformation, which in turn makes Gregor start to hide from them when they enter his room for their comfort and his insecurity.
