The reason why the Metamorphosis story resonates strongly today (How we caught the bug, Review, 18 July) is that it deals with mankind’s inbuilt prejudice against the “other”. People who do not conform to the popular and familiar norm are often vilified as some kind of repulsive animal: “vermin”, “cockroaches”, “rats” and numerous other such appellations put the victim into a category where he or she no longer merits consideration as human.
The story illustrates how the victim and family both adjust to this sudden change in the victim’s status. Not having committed any crime, the victim nevertheless feels guilt and is disowned by family and friends: an experience not unfamiliar to members of minority groups the world over when the tide of sentiment goes against them.
In a sense, every person is, or fears they are, in a minority: this story reflects our lives. Wish it were otherwise.
HS Grünewald
London