Plum Bun: A Novel Without a Moral

In the absence of romance, Angela recommits herself to her art, applying for a scholarship to study in France. She imagines retorting to the casually offensive comments her white acquaintances make about Black people: “‘I’m one of them,—do you find me worthless or dishonest or offensive in any way?’ Such a denouement would have, she felt, been a fine gesture” (333). Still, she doesn’t act upon this impulse, feeling that it would not compel them to change.

Time passes, and Angela notes that Virginia is in no hurry to get married. Angela is awarded the scholarship to France, as is the (openly) Black student, Miss Powell. However, when the scholarship sponsors learn about Miss Powell’s race, they withdraw their financial support and she loses the opportunity. Angela wonders whether she should reveal her own Black identity, but decides not to make a personal sacrifice based on mere principle.

White reporters interview Miss Powell, insinuating that her desire to accept the scholarship is an ill-disguised attempt to agitate for racial equality—a stance that cannot be accommodated. The reporters also imply that Miss Powell would be an unwelcome presence on the steamer ship that would take the winners to France, as no self-respecting white person would want to share a berth with her.