Angelica

"Angelica" by Elisabeth Sanxay Holding is a tale from the early 1900s that centers around a young woman named Angelica Kennedy, whose spirit chafes against the confines of her ordinary existence in a Harlem apartment, fueling her overwhelming desire for a more meaningful life. Themes of ambition, the tug-of-war between social classes, and the chase for individual happiness weave throughout the story, especially highlighting the differences between Angelica's high hopes and her mother’s quiet acceptance of their place in the world. The story begins by introducing Mrs. Kennedy, working tirelessly to keep their humble home afloat while supporting her daughter, Angelica, and their interactions paint a vivid picture of the conflict between their dreams and their tough reality. Fuelled by a strong urge to leave her factory job, Angelica boldly quits in hopes of finding something better, which leads her to seek employment as a companion for a wealthy family, but she soon confronts the discrimination and hurdles that come with her social class. This opening paves the way for a exploration of Angelica as she overcomes the difficulties of class and identity while searching for a glamorous existence.