In general, Gregor has little influence on the lives of others. As a traveling salesman, he does not have the opportunity to develop meaningful relationships with people outside his family. As Gregor describes it, he has “…casual acquaintances who are always new and never become intimate friends” (90). He also doesn't do much outside of work or family and makes no attempt to reach out to others. His mother even said: “The boy only thinks about his work. It almost makes me angry that he never goes out in the evening…” (95). Without additional interaction, Gregor is not important in people's lives outside of work and family, making his effect on others negligible, like that of an insect. Furthermore, despite the vital importance of work in Gregor's life, he holds a very minor position within the office. While Gregor appeals to the office manager to give him the benefit of the doubt, he admits that "travelers are not popular" because "you never see them in the office most of the year" (101). Gregor desperately tries to beg the clerk to let him keep his job because he realizes he is replaceable. This shows that Gregor lacks importance even as he works to achieve his all-consuming goal of providing for his family. Arguably the only place Gregor has influence is at home, with