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Dancers on the shore

Dancers on the shore

Contemporary LiteratureLiterary Fiction
Pages
213
Published
1964
Language
English

Synopsis

William Melvin Kelley's novel follows the experiences of a young Black man navigating the complexities of identity and belonging in 1960s America. As he moves between different social circles and confronts societal expectations, he grapples with his place in the world. This story explores themes of race, culture, and the search for self.

Prose complexity
7/10

Vibe

Thought-ProvokingReflectiveComplexEmotional
Coming of AgeFish Out of Water

Genres

Contemporary Literature Literary Fiction Society

About the author

W
William Melvin Kelley

William Melvin Kelley is the author featured in Prentice Hall Literature. His work is a great way to explore classic and impactful writing.

Characters

William Melvin KelleyProtagonist
All characters in Dancers on the shore

Frequently asked questions

  • Does this book connect to the author's other works?

    Several stories in this collection feature characters and locations that also appear in the author's debut novel, A Different Drummer, effectively expanding the literary world established in that book.

  • What is the origin of the book's title?

    The title is derived from a passage in Joseph Conrad's Heart of Darkness, which the author used to help set the thematic tone for the collection.

  • Is there a film or television adaptation of this book?

    An anthology series exists that draws from the stories in this collection, specifically focusing on the lives of the Carey, Dunford, and Bedlow families.