Gregor only accepted this job since his father’s business had failed, and he was required to accommodate the family financially. Gregor acknowledges his position as the family man without complaint since he understands he must, even if he does not enjoy the new experience. Kafka notes, “If it had not been for my parents’ sake, I would have quit ages ago” and “once I have gathered enough money to pay off my parents’ debt to him… I’ll do it for sure.” It is significant to realize that the Samsa family is concerned about money, which brings excessive worry. Because Gregor and his family rely on his income, having such a highly structured job is vital.
When Gregor transforms and is unable to work, hence the family loses its source of income. “Already on the first day, his father laid out all the financial circumstances and prospects to his mother and to his sister as well,” writes Kafka. To compensate for the crushing defeat of Gregor’s earnings, both the father and Grete must begin working, which is insufficient. The family further takes in some boundaries to earn extra money, leading to discourse with the borders when they discover Gregor.