Interprative Essay of the Novel “Passing”
Interprative Essay of the Novel “Passing”
The novel “Passing” written by Nella Larson was written reflecting the times of racial segregation and affluence of the majority white society. Written in the Harlem Renaissance era, “passing”, which meant an afro-American passing for a white is use to describe the focus of which motivated the author to create such a piece. It is a story of leaving one’s life behind to gain a new with its benefits and privileges. Passing meant discovering the freedom attained, gaining a sense of power, hope, and the American Dream. To be afro-American in those times would mean giving up hope of ever having those dreams in the predominantly white society. However, we also see the perils and dangers that come with this lifestyle. Passing was not just an escape to greener pastures but an avenue that could bring even more trouble and hurt with the discovery of true identity.
Irene and Clare were childhood friends separated by the death of Clare’s father. After his death, Clare grew up on the West side of town with her white aunts, Edna and Grace. It was at this time she was kept a secret and was taught how to be white and enjoy the benefits of it. She was always told to avoid speaking about her ethnicity to her neighbors or never mentioning the South side of town (pg 27). Clare concealed her identity and shut out all of her past relationships except for Irene Redfield. Irene, secure for the most part but still apprehensive of beign a woman of color accepted it, and did not see a need to pass and play the role. She said, “I have everything I want except, perhaps, a little more money.” (p. 28) Upon catching up after their twelve year stint away from each other, Irene noticed a peculiar attraction that her and Clare shared for each other. Never the less, this deep attraction was drowned out by Irene’s envious hatred because of the beauty that Clare possessed. They both had this in common; they both felt alienated and far from their husbands. Though little effort came from Irene’s side the perseverance of Clare produced further meetings together.
I feel Irene had a major part in the fall of Clare Redfield. Irenes felt that her marriage was...