The Metamorphosis

The beginning of The Metamorphosis starts the protagonist, Gregor, laying in bed.  The first line indicates that he turned into a giant insect overnight which is symbolic.  He also overslept and is late for work.  He feels discouraged about getting up and going to work, but his manager shows up at his house.  Gregory's family and boss all come to his door to make sure he is alright.  The tone of the first 25 pages is slightly depressing.  Gregor feels overburdened with everything that occurs in his life, and he questions why everyone seems to want to bother him.