Probably Kafka...

Possibly ourselves...

Maybe... neither

Michael Major is the author of a new book on Franz Kafka, entitled Kafka...for our Time: Journeys of Discovery. It consists of thought-provoking interpretations of 24 Kafka short stories, based on new  translations. Franz Kafka's writings have long been analysed and debated by scholars.  

The complex nature of the works have put Kafka's literature in the realm of the specialist and made them appear daunting and remote to the general public. Major breaks through this barrier and broadens access to Kafka, by presenting fresh insights into a selection of short stories. Moreover, he invites readers to consider their own interpretations, based upon social experience and cultural background, free from prescribed schools of thought.

Major's book derives from his own experience with the writer. For most of his life he was only marginally familiar with Franz Kafka's literature. He was reintroduced to it by chance, when a friend discussed with him one of Kafka's notable works, ''Before the Law.'' From that moment Michael was drawn into the intrigue of Kafka’s style. His mysterious and sometimes confusing prose forced him to contemplate the story and its relevance not only to the characters, but to Kafka's life, and to his own. With this book, Major seeks to show readers of any age and background that Kafka’s writings are not only meaningful and profound, but can be explored and enjoyed by everyone.