

#7741
Mentioned in 5 episodes
Passing
Book •
Nella Larsen's "Passing" is a novel exploring the complexities of racial identity and the experience of passing as white in the early 20th century.
The story follows two light-skinned Black women, Irene and Clare, who navigate the social and psychological challenges of living in a racially divided society.
The novel delves into themes of self-discovery, betrayal, and the psychological toll of concealing one's true identity.
Larsen's masterful prose and insightful exploration of race and identity make "Passing" a powerful and enduring work of American literature.
The story follows two light-skinned Black women, Irene and Clare, who navigate the social and psychological challenges of living in a racially divided society.
The novel delves into themes of self-discovery, betrayal, and the psychological toll of concealing one's true identity.
Larsen's masterful prose and insightful exploration of race and identity make "Passing" a powerful and enduring work of American literature.
Mentioned by
Mentioned in 5 episodes
Mentioned by 

when discussing Chicagoan authors.


David Mamet

132 snips
David Mamet
Mentioned by ![undefined]()

as an example of a 1920s and 30s black literature novel exploring the theme of passing.

Vinson Cunningham

59 snips
In “Severance,” the Gothic Double Lives On
Mentioned by ![undefined]()

in relation to the themes of identity and self-acceptance in 'A Different Man'.

Vinson Cunningham

12 snips
“The Substance” and the New Horror of the Modified Body
Recommended by 

as a brilliant novel that everyone should go back to.


Sarah Churchwell

Absalom, Absalom! by William Faulkner
Mentioned by ![undefined]()

as containing a case discussed in the exhibition about a man suing his wife for not disclosing her Black ancestry.

Francesca Wade

The Best-Paid Woman in NYC
Mentioned as Maurice Baring devoted entire sections of it to an account of the misinterpretation that was put on conversion.

Melanie McDonagh, "Converts: From Oscar Wilde to Muriel Spark, Why So Many Became Catholic in the 20th Century" (Yale UP, 2025)
Mentioned by Sanibel as inspiration for her book, discussing cultural passing and privilege.

1865: Class, Privilege and How the Ultra-Wealthy Wield Status
Mentioned by 

as one of her favorite books, emphasizing its impact on her perspective.


Soraya Darabi

Soraya Darabi on Social-Media Startups (Podcast)






