Overshadowed: A Novel

"Overshadowed: A Novel" by Sutton E. (Sutton Elbert) Griggs is a fictional story set in an era where racial and social barriers severely impacted the lives of young black people. The plot follows Erma Wysong, a young black woman, navigates her identity amid widespread prejudice. The story emphasizes themes of race, class divisions, and the tough journey to achieve self-respect when faced with limiting social stereotypes. Erma is first presented as an uneasy person deeply pained by the cultural standards that judge her employment choices. She is distressed by her desire to work as a servant, in spite of the social stigma faced by blacks regarding work. The initial setup signals the audience for a sad trip in Erma trying to match her desires with the unjust social climate that controls her life and thinking.