Nella Larsen's exploration of identity was significantly shaped by her experiences as a mixed-race individual in early 20th-century America. Her struggles included grappling with racial prejudice, societal expectations, and a desire for personal authenticity. As a part of the Harlem Renaissance, Larsen's work often reflected the complexities of black identity, particularly for women. She sought to balance her literary ambitions with the cultural limitations imposed on her by society, producing significant works that questioned racial and gender norms. These challenges ultimately contributed to her deeply introspective and impactful narratives.