Provide the reader with background information about your topic. If referencing a text, briefly mention the author, title, and publication date. Franz Kafka wrote The Metamorphosis in 1915, a year after the beginning of World War I. Failed political alliances coupled with technical innovations made this conflict the bloodiest and most devastating the world had ever seen. Narrow the focus of your introduction to encompass your text. A keen observer of everyday life, Kafka imbued his characters with the angst and confusion prevalent in the early 20th century. State the thesis of your essay at the end of your introducion The plight of Gregor Samsa and the inadequate reactions of his family members reflect man’s inability to reckon with everyday life in the face of unprecedented disaster.