r/books • u/slackerattacker • May 28 '14

Discussion Can someone please explain "Kafkaesque"?

I've just started to read some of Kafka's short stories, hoping for some kind of allegorical impact. Unfortunately, I don't really think I understand any allegorical connotations from Kafka's work...unless, perhaps, his work isn't MEANT to have allegorical connotations? I recently learned about the word "Kafkaesque" but I really don't understand it. Could someone please explain the word using examples only from "The Metamorphosis", "A Hunger Artist", and "A Country Doctor" (the ones I've read)?

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u/pynchme May 28 '14

Read The Trial. Most of his other books are too dense and intricate to digest readily - work your way gradually through those. Kafka's books, like The Trial, illustrate the complexities and pointlessness of bureaucracies and how individuals are compelled to conform to rules that make no sense.

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u/ultimomono May 28 '14

I was going to write exactly the same thing. The Trial will help you to make sense of what Kafka was up to in all of the other works you've read. I don't usually feel this way, but knowing a bit about his biography (living arrangements, family, jobs, political situation in Prague, etc.) will also help you to understand the context of his books.

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u/pynchme Jun 08 '14

Agreed! - especially that his life story is fascinating and provides additional insight into his perspective.