The act of “passing” takes center stage in Larsen’s novel. Passing is the process of assuming an identity other than the one society has assigned and can apply to race, gender or sexuality. Larsen’s novel is concerned with the politics and psychology of racial passing in twentieth century America. In the novel, African-Americans like Clare Kendry and, to a lesser extent, Irene Redfield, pass as white to obtain the benefits denied to African-Americans. Irene reminds Hugh Wentworth during a dance that it is harder for whites to pass as black. Furthermore, there are more compelling reasons for black people to pass, such as escaping the racist discrimination and violence prevalent in America at that time. Because of their complexion, Clare, Irene and Gertrude their pale complexions mean they are considered white, with people often mistaking them for Italian or Latina. In other words, they are accepted by white society based on their physical appearance, and receive the benefits and respect afforded to white people.

For many, passing is an act of betrayal. For example, Clare marries an overtly racist white man who expresses his hatred for African-Americans whenever he can. Ironically, he has no clue that he is married to a black woman or that his daughter is a “Negro.