Gregor's injury, lasting over a month, served as a constant reminder of his humanity despite his grotesque transformation. The apple embedded in his body stood as a testament to his family's struggle to reconcile their feelings toward him, highlighting the tension between his previous identity and his current state. His father's recognition of Gregor as family, despite the overwhelming disgust, underscored the burden of familial obligation.

Instead of rejecting Gregor outright, the family was compelled to confront their discomfort and accept his presence. This uneasy coexistence reflected the complex dynamics of familial duty and the challenge of embracing someone in a drastically altered state. It illustrated the tension between love and repulsion, showing that enduring one's own kin, no matter how transformed, is an essential aspect of family responsibility.