A Spacious Cage: Kafka's Childhood

There are no texts by Kafka before 1900. I suppose he must have, at least, created multiple drawings, given that children often draw, and Kafka’s diaries contain numerous sketches and doodles. However, these works have likely been lost or destroyed over time, much like many other manuscripts that never made it to us—despite Max Brod’s last-ditch efforts. However, we can still delve into his family history since understanding his background may shed light on his works.

It is known that Kafka had a penchant for reading autobiographies. But he never crafted one himself (his life was cut short at 40). Our sole autobiographical piece is Kafka’s Letter to the Father, penned in his later years (a text we’ll explore down the line). This letter provides a window into his domestic life. But I feel we need a broader picture.

So ok, let’s start at the start.

Kafka’s biography by Max Brod doesn’t offer much insight. Brod’s desire to worship Kafka as a messianic figure is evident. That said, I shouldn…