Across these texts, gazing or looking at “the other” is central. The gaze is represented in passing in different ways but I want to focus on passing/colorism and how it is shown in the readings. Passing (in contest of Harlem Renaissance) Typically involves a person of Black/African American descent appears to be white claiming to… Continue reading blog 5 title: TBA
Nella Larsen’s Passing (1929) is an insightful piece of literature on racial tension, colorism, and intracommunity struggles. But just beneath the surface, it can just as easily be read as a story about queer desire. Reading between the lines, protagonist Irene, and several other characters, may indeed be passing–not for white, but for straight. It… Continue reading Close Encounters of the Same Kind (FINAL)
In my group, we discussed Clare’s husband John and tried to understand what his character’s thoughts and motivations are. I presented the idea that John may have actually known that Clare was Black, and was in denial about it or willing to ignore it if it meant he could have a wife and a “complete”… Continue reading Who is John Bellew and what does he know?
In reading the first chapters of Passing, what stands out the most is Irene’s supposed indifference and disdain toward Clare’s life choices. She seems at once very judgemental of Clare, declaring at the end of the first chapter that she was “done” with her, but earlier she invited her to spend a weekend with her… Continue reading Irene’s Repulsion & Curisoity