KAFKA, Franz (1883-1924) and A.L. LLOYD, translator (1908-1982). The Metamorphosis. London: The Parton Press, 1937.

The first edition in English of Kafka’s surrealist fable, in its original glassine jacket. The tale of Gregor Samsa’s transformation into a giant insect has achieved the status of a modern fairy tale. Nabokov judged Kafka as “the greatest German writer of our time,” writing that “the transparency of his style underlines the dark richness of his fantasy world.”

Octavo. Publishers grey paper boards backed in blue cloth, printed blue paper label to upper board (a few light spots to upper board, spine a little darkened at ends). Original glassine dust jacket with price printed on flap (some small losses mainly at edges, a few small spots). Provenance: Paul Levy (ownership inscription).