Maskh Persian 2026

“The Metamorphosis” is a work by Franz Kafka, one of the greatest German-language writers, translated into Persian by Sadeq Hedayat and published by Chelcheleh Publishing. This novella is one of Kafka’s most celebrated works and is considered among the most significant works of twentieth-century fantastic literature.

The story follows a young man named Gregor Samsa, who wakes up one morning to discover that he has been transformed into a strange insect-like creature. Once the sole provider for his family, Gregor is now confined to his room while his sister, father, and mother are forced to work to support themselves. At first, his sister takes responsibility for caring for him, but gradually the entire family becomes exhausted and begins to distance themselves from the transformed Gregor, eventually leaving him forgotten and isolated.

Other stories included in this volume are “The Hunter Gracchus,” “The Guest of the Dead,” “The Sword,” and “In Our Synagogue.” Interpretive essays on the final three stories, “The Guest of the Dead,” “The Sword,” and “In Our Synagogue,” are provided at the end of each respective story, offering further insight into Kafka’s themes and literary vision.