65 pages 2 hours read

Passing

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1929

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Summary and Study Guide

Overview

Passing is a riveting novel by African-American writer Nella Larsen. As a prominent figure in the Harlem Renaissance of the 1920s, Larsen’s work often dealt with what it meant to be black in America. One facet of the so-called “Negro problem,” and one that other writers tackled as well, was the concept of “passing,” which entailed black people pretending to be white, in order to avoid discrimination and gain access to the privilege of whiteness. Larsen’s novel deals with this issue head-on, as well as the psychological implications this performance entails for those involved. Larsen’s novel allows readers a glimpse into the harrowing experience of passing.

The narrative follows Irene Redfield and her troubling friendship with Clare Kendry. Both Irene and Clare are African-American, but due to their light complexions, can pass for white. While Irene passes only occasionally, thus partaking in the privileges afforded to white people only when necessary, Clare has left her past behind her to pass completely, or so it would seem.

The novel begins when Irene receives a letter from Clare, begging for a meeting. Irene wants to ignore the letter, not only because of the dangers and risks associated with meeting Clare again, but because Clare is such a reckless person.

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