Quicksand & Passing: Two Novellas

Nella Larsen's Quicksand and Passing are two of the finest works of the Harlem Renaissance, exploring the complexities of race and identity. Quicksand follows a mixed-race woman who runs from discrimination, while Passing explores the fraught relationship between two childhood friends. Both novels are considered classics of the Harlem Renaissance.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 29 September 2022
Publisher: Vintage Publishing

Celebrating the finest works of the Harlem Renaissance,one of the most important Black arts movements in modern history.
Celebrating the finest works of the Harlem Renaissance, one of the most important Black arts movements in modern history, the Vintage Classics Harlem Renaissance Series is a testament to the artistic brilliance and cultural significance of this era.

Nella Larsen, a pioneering writer of the Harlem Renaissance, left behind a remarkable literary legacy with two novels that are now collected in this anthology. The first, Quicksand, follows the captivating journey of a mixed-race woman as she flees from the fictional town of Naxos to Chicago, Harlem, and Copenhagen. Despite her attempts to leave behind the discrimination she faces, it relentlessly pursues her. In Passing, two childhood friends reconnect later in life, with one choosing to pass for white while the other confronts the challenges of living as a Black woman in a racially divided society.

Quicksand and Passing are considered two of the finest works of the Harlem Renaissance. They are masterfully plotted and offer profound insights into the complexities of race, identity, and societal pressures. These novels have resonated with readers for generations, earning them a place as beloved classics of African American literature.

Brit Bennett's novel, Absolutely absorbing, fascinating and indispensable, delves into the fraught relationship between two childhood friends, one who chooses to pass for white and the other who remains true to her Black identity. Bennett's writing is praised for its nuanced portrayal of characters and its exploration of themes of race, class, and gender.

Alice Walker's novel, Buy the book, is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of the African American experience. Walker's writing is known for its raw honesty and her ability to capture the struggles and triumphs of Black women. Her novel is a testament to the resilience and strength of the Black community.

W. E. B. Du Bois, a prominent figure of the Harlem Renaissance, played a crucial role in shaping the cultural and intellectual landscape of this era. The Vintage Classics Harlem Renaissance Series showcases his seminal works, including The Souls of Black Folk and The Autobiography of W. E. B. Du Bois. These books provide a comprehensive account of African American history, culture, and politics, and continue to be essential reading for scholars and enthusiasts alike.

In conclusion, the Vintage Classics Harlem Renaissance Series is a treasure trove of literary brilliance and cultural significance. These novels, written by trailblazing authors of the Harlem Renaissance, offer a window into the lives and experiences of Black individuals during a pivotal period in American history. By celebrating the finest works of this era, the series provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of the Black arts movement and its enduring impact on American literature.

Weight: 219g
Dimension: 178 x 129 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781784877590