Themes Of Harlem Renaissance And Modernism In Jean Toomer's Becky

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Jean Toomer’s “Becky” continues three key themes that put it in conversation with the Harlem Renaissance and Modernism. The theme that appears as soon as the story begins is the breakdown of social norms. The story begins with “Becky was the white woman who had two Negro sons.” During this time, interracial relationships were outlawed, and black men would be putting their lives in danger if they even glanced at a white woman. Therefore, for people who read this during the Harlem Renaissance, this would be taboo and disturbing. The next theme that connects “Becky” with the Harlem Renaissance and Modernism is the disjointed timeline. When the audience first learns about Becky, we learn that Becky was white with two Negro sons. Immediately