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Clare, however, longs to socialize with Black people. Although Irene reminds Clare that her behavior also endangers her daughter, even she admits that there is no way in life to be completely safe. In this scene, Larsen shows that Clare’s happiness depends on accepting danger.
Five days after Irene has received Clare ’s second letter, she still has not replied. Irene notices that Clare has asked for Irene’s response to be sent to the post office rather than her house, which angers Irene because she thinks it implies that she is not trustworthy.
Irene’s worries about Clare’s secret being discovered gradually fade. Next spring, however, the Bellews will be going back to Europe. Clare complains about the prospect, even after Irene reminds her that it will mean being reunited with Margery.
Irene’s decision not to warn Clare about her second meeting with Bellew and its likely consequences is driven by her desire for security. She can live with Brian and Clare’s affair, but she will not risk the potential dissolution of her marriage that would result if Bellew were to divorce Clare.
Clare’s face took on a startled look, as though she were totally unprepared for this new weapon with which Irene had assailed her. Seconds passed, during which she sat with stricken eyes and compressed lips. “I think,” she said at last, “that being a mother is the cruellest thing in the world.”
Despite the fact that Clare’s passing affords her many of the privileges afforded to white Americans, she is unhappy in her situation, and longs to return to the black community. To this end, Clare attempts to befriend Irene.
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Why did Irene not respond to Clare's second letter?
How does Clare express her desire to see Irene again?
How does Clare affect Irene's Life?
Why does Clare try to befriend Irene?
What happens if Bellew ends his marriage to Clare?
Does Clare have an affair with Brian?
Irene sees Clare’s passing as a permanent choice, and one that should preclude her from returning to the black community. To Irene, it seems Clare is trying to have it both ways: enjoying both white privilege and black community.
