This quote presents a complex interplay between literature, self-awareness, and cultural context. Reading Kafka in Guinea, a country vastly different from Kafka’s own, the speaker recognizes his own feelings of unease and alienation mirrored in Kafka’s work. Kafka’s writings often explore themes of absurdity, existential anxiety, and alienation, which the speaker relates to his own experiences. This might be due to cultural differences, personal struggles, or the universal human condition.

The "discomfort" could refer to a sense of being out of place or feeling misunderstood, much like many of Kafka’s characters. It could also refer to the struggles of grappling with existential questions about purpose, freedom, and authenticity, themes that both Kafka and Sartre explore in their works. By reading Kafka, the speaker is able to better understand and articulate his own discomfort.

In today’s world, this idea can be applied in various ways. It highlights the power of literature to bridge cultural and personal divides, to offer solace, understanding, and a sense of not being alone in our struggles. In terms of personal development, it emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and understanding our own emotions. It suggests that by engaging with diverse perspectives and experiences through literature, we can gain insights into our own life and feelings.

Moreover, it also underscores the role of discomfort in personal growth. Often, it is through grappling with discomfort, rather than avoiding it, that we learn, grow, and develop a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. This is especially relevant in today’s increasingly globalized and interconnected world, where we are often confronted with perspectives and experiences vastly different from our own.