The door could not be heard slamming; they had probably left it open, as is the custom in homes where a great misfortune has occurred.
In "The Metamorphosis," the silence following a tragic event is palpable, suggesting the emotional weight of the situation. The detail that the door was likely left open reflects a cultural practice in homes facing significant misfortune, symbolizing both vulnerability and an air of resignation. This open doorway serves as a metaphor for the gap between the characters' former lives and their current state of despair.
The image of the open door also implies the reluctance or inability of the characters to confront their new reality head-on. It signifies a sense of abandonment and highlights the transformation not only of Gregor Samsa but of his family's dynamics as well. Their failure to close the door leaves them exposed, emphasizing the profound impact of their misfortune on their daily lives and interactions.
