THE METAMORPHOSIS A New Translation

Edoardo Ballerini's narration provides an emotionally sensitive, intelligent take on Kafka's famous novella that captures its disturbing humor. He exhibits an easy proficiency in managing the pace, varying voices to represent various characters, and achieving clarity of phrasing and emphasis. Beyond that, his precise diction mirrors the hyperrealistic detailing of Gregor Samsa's new life as a giant insect. Ballerini's deftness, brisk pace, and light touch not only keep the text moving but also help convey the anxious, querulous, submissive feel of someone far more eager to please and fit in than to question his absurd fate. The nervous energy of Ballerini's reading reflects the subtle hysteria underlying the tale. The artistry of the narrator is as satisfying as the story is disquieting. W.M. © AudioFile 2015, Portland, Maine [Published: OCTOBER 2015]