What is the theme of the novel "Passing"? by nella larsenbe specific

Two of the most significant themes are identity and
belonging.  Clare is a light skinned black woman who is passing for white in white
society, so a large part of the novel looks at the idea of how we define ourselves as
individuals and how we let others define us.  Is skin color a part of one's identity? 
How?  Is it a question for all ethnic groups, or some more than others?  What is
revealed about the attitudes of blacks and whites in this novel as it relates to skin
color and identity.

The other important theme is that of
"belonging."  Clare, because she is passing for white, has to be very careful how she
lives her life, and must be constantly protecting this carefully created veneer, but
that leaves her a bit outside of her roots.  She must be careful to not reveal her black
background, or she will lose everything she thinks she has accomplished with her
"passing" for white.  She reaches out to Irene, a childhood friend because she seeks a
connection with the past and with her personal truth.

The
novel also hits on themes of racism, friendship, betrayal, loyalty, feminism, and a host
of others as well.