In Franz Kafka's novel 'Der Verschollene', we are introduced to the story of a young man named Karl Roßmann who is sent away from home by his parents after getting a maid pregnant. The novel follows Karl's struggles as he navigates through a complex and surreal society marked by absurdity and bureaucracy. Kafka's unique style of writing, characterized by its use of allegory and metaphor, conveys a sense of alienation and helplessness, reflecting the author's own existential angst in the face of modernity. 'Der Verschollene' is often seen as a critique of capitalism and the dehumanizing effects of industrialization, making it a cornerstone of existential literature. Kafka's exploration of the individual's struggle against a faceless, oppressive system is both timeless and thought-provoking, leaving readers questioning the nature of power and agency in a society that seems indifferent to their plight. 'Der Verschollene' is a must-read for those interested in existential themes, surrealism, and the complexities of the human condition.