Metaphors of Crossing in Nella Larsen’s Quicksand
Metaphors of Crossing in Nella Larsen’s Quicksand

Summary/Abstract: Nella Larsen's Quicksand brings about an in-depth character analysis of a biracial, binational protagonist in her attempt to negotiate issues of historical, cultural and spiritual freedom.The author examines the way in which race, gender, and nationality interfere in a liminal space epitomized by main character Helga Crane. By employing the journey metaphor, Nella Larsen builds upon the interconnection between physical migration, psychological space, and individual identity.To fulfill her identity quest, Helga travels from southern to northern America, and then crosses the ocean to Denmark, only to return back to the American South. During her crossings she is driven by a desire to fathom her destiny and place in the world but proves to be unable to circumscribe within any distinct social category. In Helga Crane’s case, traveling stands for crossing, with its multiple meanings: geographical relocation, transgressing of boundaries, hybridization, alterity. This is mainly due to the fact that she is a hybrid herself - the result of biracial marriage – and, much like her creator, continually crosses geographical lines, finding herself in the position of both migrant and immigrant, without ever attaining a clear sense of her own identity.

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