Comment on Harlem

Harlem in the 1920s is much more than just the setting of this story. The novel abounds in lush, lyrical descriptions of the thriving interdependent black community. Harlem is filled with every type of group, social club, association and mutual aid society. The churches are so large and powerful, so much a part of Harlem's social life, they are called by nicknames. To Violet and Joe, moving to the City in their thirties, Harlem seems much more than perfect. There are certainly more opportunities here than anywhere else for black people.