3.5
Passing
ByPublisher Description
In Larsen’s second novel, “Passing,” first published in 1929, the author revisits the theme of her first novel “Quicksand”, that being the struggle for racial identity by children of mixed-race. The novel details the lives of two childhood friends, Clare Kendry and Irene Redfield, both of whom are of mixed African and European ancestry and are “passing” as whites. The novel picks up in the lives of the two as they later reunite in adulthood. An ambiguous relation develops between the two as they share a fascination for how each other’s lives have transpired since they last knew each other. Larsen’s work has been lauded for its exploration of race, gender, class, and sexuality amongst African Americans in early part of the 20th century. Now considered as a major figure of the Harlem Renaissance, Larsen’s writing gives a firsthand insight into the struggle of African Americans during this era.
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Meet readers like you in the Fable For You feed, designed to build bookish communitiesPassing Reviews
3.5
“I was first introduced to Passing when Netflix released their movie adaptation. At the time, it was a concept I had never considered in Black history. I’ve had it on my TBR ever since, and it’s been a long time coming finally reading this novel.
My first impression was the language itself. I found it challenging to read, but being challenged is a good thing — it reflected the time period authentically.
I believe this story is so profound because, often, when the concept of “passing” comes up in our community, the conversation centers on whether it’s right or wrong. The author explores this in depth through Irene and Clare, with the supporting characters adding even more dimension. 📚
As far as my theory on the plot — I think both Bellew and Irene had motive in wanting Clare dead. It could’ve gone either way for me. What’s interesting is how envious Irene was, though I’ll give her grace because she too is a complex character. I don’t believe Clare and Brian had an affair. I think Brian was simply captivated by her, and Irene was just a different kind of woman than Clare. She always found ways to put Clare down. A shame.
This book was extremely thought provoking, and I enjoyed every step of the way. I’m going to revisit the Netflix adaptation to look for parallels. I would recommend this book over and over — I completely see why it’s considered a classic. ✨”
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