The passage describes the thoughts of a man named Gregor as he awakens from sleep on his narrow bed in a small room. Initially, his mind returns to concerns about his job and daily routine, specifically his dislike for early morning wake-ups and the monotony of traveling sales work.

As he tosses around, unable to find a comfortable position due to an unfamiliar new form, Gregsor's attention shifts towards trying to scratch an itch on his stomach. However, this action proves uncomfortable as well, further heightening his irritation.

His thoughts then turn more introspective as he reflects upon the isolation and loneliness that accompanies being away from home for extended periods. He reminisces about acquaintances made along the way but notes how none of these relationships ever truly deepened beyond superficial levels.

Feeling increasingly disoriented and fatigued, Gregor longs to fall back asleep but is unable due to his new physical constraints. As he tries again, he becomes aware that even simple actions like rolling onto his side have become laborious tasks due to the unusual shape of his body.

As he lies there struggling with these frustrations, Gregsor's gaze falls upon a framed photograph on the wall which depicts an unknown woman whose face holds some inexplicable significance for him. This visual cue seems to trigger memories from before and prompts further reflection about what might have caused such a drastic change in his life circumstances.

In conclusion, this passage sets up the central theme of alienation through physical transformation by describing how Gregor struggles with both internalized emotions like frustration and external realities imposed upon him without warning or explanation.

Metamorphosis manga cap 1