Josef K is innocent

Bruce Christianson claims that in Kafka's novel The Trial Josef K "never once asks what the accusation against him actually is" (Letters, 19 February). Even the briefest of glances at the novel shows this claim to be unfounded. On the second page (Fischer edition), he asks why he has been arrested and on the fourth page he demands to see the arrest warrant. Of course, neither request is granted. It is shocking to find that, even in death, he continues to be libelled and persecuted - Josef K is innocent!

Paul Seedhouse, Newcastle University.