Passing reminds me of the song “Could’ve Been” by H.E.R. H.E.R describes a failed relationship and the state of regret she is in because she did not initiate a relationship with this other person. Passing characterizes Claire’s failed attempt of embracing her true New Negro identity. Passing also describes Irene’s regret of not rejecting her New Negro identity. Throughout the film, we view each character feeding into the other’s modal of past opportunity.

Claire is ecstatic and eager to be around Irene because she can imagine herself as Irene as she does not display a facade of herself. Claire could have lived in Harlem, married a dark-skinned doctor, and in the warmth and new developing culture of New Negroes like herself. Irene passes for white from time to time. However, Claire reminds Irene of what her life could have been if she was to use a facade with her identity. Perhaps her husband and family could have relocated to Europe permanently and attain better education for their children. I also noticed that Irene and Claire are rebellious against the ideals of what should is expected of them. Claire is rebellious knowing that if she is caught, she’ll die. Irene is rebellious in keeping quiet against the dangers of what her sons can experience in Harlem for existing.