Raven Leilani’s Luster portrays a Black woman striving to establish herself and her art in a predominantly white society. This novel has garnered attention from writers such as Justin Torres, Brit Bennett, and Zadie Smith, echoing the sentiments expressed by Audre Lorde in her essay, “The Transformation of Silence into Language and Action.” Lorde articulates how Black women have been both highly visible and yet rendered invisible due to the dehumanizing effects of racism. In a poignant and skillful narrative, Leilani’s book exemplifies the truth of Lorde’s words through the character of Edie.
The story introduces us to twenty-three-year-old artist Edie, recalling her initial sexual encounter with Eric, an older businessman from uptown New York, who is in an open marriage with his wife, Rebecca. While Edie ignites strong desires in Eric, she finds herself constrained by Rebecca’s rules and Eric’s expectations of her. She senses Eric is reshaping her in his mind. As tensions rise, Eric defies Rebecca’s boundaries by inviting Edie to their home, creating a power imbalance where Edie feels compelled to engage in sexual activities on Eric’s terms.
Each aspect of Edie’s life mirrors the limitations and constraints she faces in her relationship with Eric. Her job as an editorial coordinator comes to an end due to her involvement with multiple male colleagues, leading to financial strain as her rent increases, prompting her to seek a new living arrangement. With her roommate choosing to move in with her boyfriend, Edie finds herself on the street with all her belongings stuffed into a trash bag, uncertain of her next steps.
Initially, Rebecca sets the rules governing Edie and Eric’s relationship. As Rebecca’s role evolves, she invites Edie to their anniversary party after catching Edie breaking into their home, thus shifting power dynamics to Edie’s detriment. Rebecca offers Edie a temporary stay without Eric’s knowledge, further displacing Edie as she transitions from the city to the couple’s white suburban neighborhood in New Jersey, where she encounters a hostile white gaze. Edie’s interactions with Akila, Eric and Rebecca’s Black adopted daughter, provide a glimmer of connection amidst her isolation in a predominantly white space.
Edie faces increasing microaggressions – from Eric’s silent treatments to Rebecca’s demands on Edie’s personal life – prompting Edie to leave their home. While she secures a new apartment and stable income, Edie continues to confront systemic barriers.
Luster engages in dialogue with overlooked Black literary classics, transcending traditional novel boundaries. Leilani’s candid writing style and her exploration of art and the artist elevate Luster to a significant position in American literature.
