Dear Father: You asked me once why I affirmed that I am afraid of you. As usual, I did not know what to answer, in part, precisely because of the fear that I have you, and partly because in the foundations of that fear They enter too many details so that I can keep them together in the course of a conversation. And, even if I try now to answer you In writing, my answer will be, however, very incomprehensible, because also when writing fear and its consequences inhibit me before You, and because the magnitude of the subject exceeds my memory and my understanding.
In a letter to his father, Franz Kafka reflects on his feelings of fear towards him. Kafka acknowledges that he struggles to articulate these feelings, as they are complex and deeply rooted. The fear is overwhelming, making it difficult for him to express the nuances of his emotions during conversation. He admits that even in writing, his attempts to explain are hindered by the magnitude of the subject, which surpasses his ability to fully grasp.
The letter highlights Kafka’s internal conflict and the challenges he faces in understanding and communicating his fears. It reveals a profound sense of vulnerability as he grapples with the impact his father's presence has on him. Through this correspondence, Kafka seeks to confront his feelings, yet finds himself restrained by the very fear he wishes to describe.
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