Written in the late 1920's, this is truly a powerful piece of writing. Even after all these years, it remains an important work, delving into the uncomfortable critique of modern race relations. Nella Larsen holds a significant place in history as the first African-American woman to receive a Guggenheim fellowship. Although her body of work may not be extensive in terms of quantity, what she produced offered fascinating insights into the difficult lives that people of mixed race had to endure.

This short novel is an uneasy read, filled with quite painful moments. It examines the lives of two very different young, black women in Harlem. Irene Redfield is part of the elite. She is accomplished, reasonably wealthy, and sophisticated, yet lives in a cultural enclave. On the other hand, Clare Kendry is just as isolated, but worryingly from her own race. Like a few others, Kendry is 'passing' for caucasian. Her husband makes jokes about her skin tone, completely unaware that she is classified as non-white.

This is not only a story about the gap between private and public selves but also about racial identity. What I found particularly thought-provoking was the subtle exploration of beauty standards, both from within and on the outside. It seems that these standards are just as deeply ingrained now as they were nearly one hundred years ago. Even today, there is a constant stream of controversies involving black celebrities having their skin lightened for magazine covers and interviews. For example, does buying into black idols perpetuate the idea that women have to conform to a white woman's standards of beauty to gain the spotlight?

However, absolutism has no place in Larsen's novel. There is much sympathy for Clare, even though she is involved in events that harm and insult other black women. She has a desire to be part of a social group that is still far above the one she was born into. She still wants to associate with her real kind, and through letters, this leads her to rekindle a friendship with Irene (or Rene), who is entirely uncomfortable with the idea.

Obviously, America has made significant progress since this book was written, but it still has a long way to go (having a racist leader doesn't help). This could easily be happening in the world today. Certainly, we all face plenty of pressures at some point in our lives, but non-whites always seem to bear the brunt of it. To be honest, although Larsen raises a serious topic here, the story as a whole left me a bit underwhelmed. The narrative structure didn't give me the impression of being anything extraordinary. I was more interested in the circumstances of both women than in how Larsen told the story. It did, however, have a shocking finale that I didn't expect, but ultimately, it shouldn't have surprised me, as the events leading up to it were never on the happy side. It may be a major work on race, but it just lacks that extra something to be truly memorable. A solid 3/5.

I've had to spend some time cogitating on this matter to figure out if I could formulate something that would comprehensively capture my feelings about this book. Comparatively speaking, being a Caucasian man in America, could I truly claim to know what it felt like to be a person of color during this time or at any time? Having said that, I must state the following.

(4.0) "Passing." That's a term, in its present context, that I wasn't acquainted with. The idea that people actually had to pass as another race to be accepted is truly beyond my comprehension. However, the color of one's skin has been a subject of discrimination for countless millennia, and I don't envision it changing anytime soon.

Nella Larson's book, "Passing," is a classic set during the Harlem Renaissance of the late 1920s and early 1930s. It evokes the pleasant memories of Harlem with its upbeat, jazzy, and coming-of-age mentality. But it also shares the unfortunately sad prejudice against black or bi-racial people of that era and shows what some individuals will do to maintain social boundaries, risking not only their social stigmas but also their well-being.

Larson's portrayal of two bi-racial women striving for acceptance in society (yet from opposite ends of the spectrum), and the ultimate outcome that shatters both of their worlds, is not only a remarkable representation but also a tragic one that has remained on my mind since turning the final page.

Recommended.

Nella Larsen's "Passing" is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that delves deep into the complex issues of race, gender, and class in 1920s New York. The story centers around Clare and Irene, two light-skinned Black women who have chosen different paths in life. Clare has left the Black community and is passing for white, while Irene lives a middle-class life in Harlem with her husband and sons.

The novel explores the fraught relationship between Clare and Irene, as well as their individual struggles with identity and belonging. Larsen's writing is elegant and contemplative, capturing the nuances of her characters' emotions and thoughts. She also provides a powerful commentary on the system of white supremacy and its impact on people of color.

One of the strengths of "Passing" is Larsen's ability to create a sense of psychological suspense. The tension between Clare and Irene builds throughout the novel, leading to a dramatic and unexpected conclusion. The novel also raises important questions about the ethics of passing and the price that individuals pay for choosing to conform to society's norms.

However, the novel is not without its flaws. Some readers may find the use of the "tragic mulatta" trope to be outdated and offensive. Additionally, the ending of the novel may leave some readers feeling unsatisfied or unresolved.

Overall, "Passing" is a significant work of literature that offers valuable insights into the experiences of Black women in the early 20th century. Larsen's writing is engaging and powerful, and her exploration of themes such as race, gender, and identity is both timely and relevant. Despite its flaws, "Passing" is a novel that is well worth reading and discussing.

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{4.5 stars}

When I finished reading this, I had to take a pause. Throughout the entire process, I could sense that something dreadful was lurking around the corner, and then it actually happened.

It is truly astonishing how, within less than 150 pages, Passing by Nella Larsen manages to present a complex and intricate dynamics between race and personal identity. This is achieved by narrating the story of Clare and Irene, two childhood friends (although perhaps acquaintances would be a more accurate term) who happen to meet again years later.

Irene and Clare are vastly different from each other, yet what unites them is their relatively lighter skin. This physical characteristic grants them the liberty to choose whether to be a part of the black community or the white community. In a society where there is a profound racial divide and disharmony, both women make distinct choices.

For both of them, this could have potentially worked out. However, the problem arises when Clare desires to be a part of both communities simultaneously. In this exquisitely told story, Nella Larsen vividly demonstrates how this decision leads to various consequences.

The story delves deep into the themes of race, identity, and the challenges faced by individuals who find themselves in a liminal space between two worlds. It makes the reader reflect on the significance of race in shaping one's life and the difficult choices that people have to make in such a context. Overall, Passing is a thought-provoking and engaging read that leaves a lasting impression.

There’s far far more to it (this incredible book). It delves into a world that is both complex and captivating.

The story unfolds in ways that keep you on the edge of your seat, constantly eager to turn the next page.

But I’m tempted to say that wlw situationships will do that to ya. They bring a unique set of emotions and experiences that are explored in such a profound and relatable way within the pages of this book.

It makes you feel as if you are right there with the characters, experiencing their joys, their sorrows, and everything in between.

The author has done an amazing job of creating a narrative that not only entertains but also makes you think and feel.

It’s a book that will stay with you long after you’ve finished reading it.

This book was an incredibly intense and thought-provoking read. I had the pleasure of listening to it on audio, and the narrator, Robin Miles, was truly superb.

We are introduced to two women - Irene Redfield and Clare Kendry. Once upon a time, they were childhood friends, but they haven't seen each other in many years. An accidental meeting brings them back together. Irene Redfield lives in Harlem in the Black community, with her husband Brian, a prominent doctor, and their two sons. Irene, after leaving their community, was brought up by a white aunt. Both women have the ability to pass as white, but only Clare has chosen to do so.

Their reunion stirs up a plethora of memories for Clare. She has always felt like an outsider and is longing to experience a sense of belongingness with other Black people. She begins to insinuate herself into Irene's life, whether Irene likes it or not. Clare's husband has no clue that Clare has 'Black' blood. What unfolds as the story progresses is astonishing and nail-biting drama.

It is an astute psychological portrait of two women, one striving to maintain the status quo and the other crossing boundaries and attempting to be a part of both worlds.

This is a gripping read that I highly recommend! Published in 1929, it still manages to captivate readers with its complex characters and engaging plot.

In the 1920s, you are living your adult life. Despite having extremely fair skin, you are labeled Negro because of your ancestry. Growing up in a world of fear, discrimination, and poverty, being a girl in a patriarchal society only adds to the challenges.

However, you now have the opportunity to "become white." You can leave behind all the hardships of your childhood as a Negro and crossover to the mainstream. You could have a white husband and all the privileges that come with it. But your new biggest fear is the possibility of having a dark-skinned child if you become a mother, although the probability is low.

What would you do? The story of Clare Kendry(/Bellew) and Irene Redfield in "Passing" provides some answers. But this novel is much more than just a story about lighter-skinned Black people being able to pass for white in the US or about two friends suppressing their possible sexual desires for each other.

It is a story of rules being made only to be broken, including those of race, gender, class, and ambition. It is about refusing to let anything stand in the way of achieving your goals. It also shows the breakdowns, mainly mental and emotional, that occur due to a lack of communication.

Clare is the most memorable character in this classic novel. A charismatic woman living on the edge of her married white life, she is a natural risk-taker. After reuniting with her old friend Irene, a wife, mother of two boys, and leader in the Black community, Clare wants something as simple as hearing Negroes laugh. But this reunion quickly takes a turn in this short book.

Emily Bernard, who wrote a masterful introduction to this edition, compared Clare Kendry to Janie Crawford of "Their Eyes Were Watching God," Sula from "Sula," and Birdie from "Caucasia." The irony is that Clare was a reluctant mother in "Passing," yet she gave birth to three of the most memorable women in all of literature.

This is book #4 of the #10Books10Decades Challenge, representing the 1920s. I would love for you to participate if you get the chance! For more information on the challenge, click the link below.

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This book is truly remarkable as it is so far ahead of its time. Written in 1929, it delves into the sensitive and touchy themes of skin color within an original and dynamic plot. The story poses thought-provoking questions such as how a black woman manages to pass as a white woman and what the consequences and price she has to pay for this passing are. The writing is of a very high quality, and the plot tension gradually builds up to an unforgettable climax. This book has all the makings of a classic. Unfortunately, the author, Nella Larsen, only wrote this one book and a few short stories. However, in "Passing," she serves as a great eyewitness to the Harlem Renaissance. It is a far superior book compared to the Pulitzer Winner for 1929, the abysmal "Laughing Boy: A Navajo Love Story." It would take another 53 years before a woman of color would win a Pulitzer with "The Color Purple."

One nice quote from the book is: "Clare, it seemed, still retained her ability to secure the thing that she wanted in the face of any opposition, and in utter disregard of the convenience and desire of others. About her there was some quality, hard and persistent, with the strength and endurance of rock, that would not be beaten or ignored. She couldn't, Irene thought, have had an entirely serene life. Not with that dark secret forever crouching in the background of her consciousness. And yet she hadn't the air of a woman whose life had been touched by uncertainty or suffering. Pain, fear, and grief were things that left their mark on people. Even love, that exquisite torturing emotion, left its subtle traces on the countenance." (p. 190)

I embarked on reading this book with absolutely no expectations whatsoever. However, upon reaching the end, the book had managed to leave an indelible and memorable impression on me.

The characters within its pages were so vividly drawn that they seemed to leap out and come to life before my eyes. Each one had their own unique personality, flaws, and virtues, making them incredibly relatable.

The circumstances in which they found themselves were both engaging and thought-provoking. They presented various challenges and dilemmas that made me reflect on my own life and the choices I make.

The story itself was a captivating journey that kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. It had twists and turns that I never saw coming, yet they all made perfect sense within the context of the narrative.

All in all, I truly believe that everyone should take the time to read this book. It has the power to touch your heart, expand your mind, and leave you with a new perspective on life.

Highly recommend it!

"Passing" by Nella Larsen is an extremely poignant and powerful literary work that delves deep into the concept of passing. Passing, in this context, refers to the act of pretending to be someone one is not for personal and often selfish gain. Larsen masterfully explores this theme through her two main characters, Irene and Clare, both of whom are African-American women.

Irene, born African-American, marries a successful African-American doctor and chooses to remain within the African-American community. She only passes when it suits her convenience or when there is an opportunity for gain. In contrast, Clare, also of African-American heritage, decides to completely disregard her roots and live as a white woman. She embraces all that a white lifestyle has to offer, to the extent that even her husband is unaware of her true racial identity.

As the story progresses, both women are faced with the difficult task of choosing what is most important to them. Surprisingly, neither is content with the path they have chosen. Irene, who could potentially be happy with her life, is hindered by her dark-skinned husband who refuses to conform to her desired way of life. Additionally, she fails to address the underlying race issue. Meanwhile, Clare has achieved everything she thought she wanted but discovers that she actually needs the very thing she has been trying to erase from her life for a long time. In the end, the realization of their respective lives and the direction they have taken leads to severe consequences.

I highly recommend "Passing" to anyone interested in understanding the motives behind people's actions and the factors that influence their decisions. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and was completely engrossed from start to finish. However, I do wish that Larsen had continued the story for a little longer instead of bringing it to such an abrupt end. Overall, I rate this book 4 stars.

Nella Larsen's "Passing" is a remarkable novel that was first published in 1929. Set mainly in the Harlem neighborhood of New York City during the 1920s, it tells the story of the reunion of two childhood friends, Clare Kendry and Irene Redfield, and their growing fascination with each other's lives.

Passing refers to the practice of racial "passing", which is a crucial element of the novel. Clare Kendry's attempt to pass as white for her husband, John Bellew, is a significant depiction and a catalyst for the tragic events. However, the title can also be attributed to the concept of straight "passing" as there is an undeniable homoerotic subtext between Clare and Irene.

The 1920s in the US was a time of great anxiety and discussion about the crossing of racial boundaries. The Great Migration, in which hundreds of thousands of blacks left the rural south for northern and midwestern cities, further加剧了 this anxiety. The practice of "passing" was known as people attempting to claim recognition in another racial group.

Larsen's novel engages several levels of the human experience and, through insightful psychological portraiture, reveals the complex passions in a society affected by racism. The characters' emotional dilemmas, highlighted by intricate personal interrelationships, lead to considerations of challenging issues.

On the surface, "Passing" conforms to the stereotype of "the tragic mulatto" in its portrayal of Clare Kendry. However, the book resists the conventions of the genre as Clare refuses to feel the expected anguish. Additionally, the concept of straight "passing" is a major concern, as Clare seems to trigger all the sexual awareness in the novel.

A close look at Brian supports the understanding of Irene's sexuality. Her opinion of her husband's appearance is tempered with a defense of questionable heterosexuality.

"Passing" is a beautifully written portrayal of the joys and restrictions faced by African American women in the 1920s. It is rich in theme and provides great food for thought, giving voice to people and thoughts that are rarely heard. I highly appreciate Nella Larsen's work, and "Passing" is definitely my favorite of hers.

A vivid and immersive fly-on-the-wall perspective of the black upper middle class life in 1920's Chicago and Harlem is presented, as seen through the mind of the captivating Irene Redfield. The My Restless Books edition, which features a great Forward by Darryl Pinckney, includes a note stating that the original spelling and punctuation have been preserved, with only minimal typographical and grammatical edits for enhanced readability and consistency. Thankfully, these edits are indeed minimal, as the text contains occasional long sentences with odd syntax that sometimes required me to read them a couple of times to fully understand. However, these sentences added to the charm of the book for me, as they mirrored Irene's near-obsessive concern with propriety and appearances, which served as her only defensive weapon to safeguard her family's privileged upper middle class status.

For example, this sentence is especially striking: Desperately she tried to shut out the knowledge from which had risen this turmoil, which she had no power to moderate or still, within her. It's as if the syntax is attempting to contain and subdue Irene's passion on the page.

I don't detect a homoerotic undertone between Irene and Claire. Instead, what I observe is that Irene is panicked by her intense attraction to Claire's risk-taking ways, which pose an existential threat to the safety of her upper middle class life. This adds an interesting twist to the question of why/how Claire falls out of the window. Perhaps Irene did give her a push, but not because she was having an affair with her husband. Irene doesn't seem to have any romantic or physical feelings for her husband at all; rather, she needs him as the central pillar of her privileged and safe life. They even sleep in separate rooms. Okay, so that might potentially leave room for a homoerotic element...

There is an abundance of depth and complexity to unpack in this book, and I will definitely be reading it again.