* Social Mobility: The narrator, who has been passing for white, sees the widow as a potential gateway to a more comfortable and secure life. She represents a chance to escape the limitations and prejudices he has faced as a Black man.
* Escape from Racial Identity: The widow, being white, allows him to further distance himself from his racial identity. This desire to escape his racial background is a recurring theme in the novel.
* Desire for Status and Acceptance: By associating with a wealthy and socially prominent woman, the narrator hopes to gain status and acceptance in the white world. He craves the validation that comes with being seen as a successful and respected member of society.
* Attraction to Her Personality: The narrator is drawn to her sophistication and poise. Her wealth, while significant, is not the only thing that attracts him. He finds her interesting and engaging.
* Aversion to "Lower-Class" Black Women: The narrator is explicitly repelled by the "lower-class" Black women he encounters at the club. This reveals a deep-seated internalized racism that contributes to his attraction to the widow.
It's important to note that the narrator's attraction to the widow is deeply problematic. It reflects his internalized racism and his desire to disassociate himself from his Black identity. While he may be drawn to her for reasons beyond her wealth, his pursuit of her is ultimately driven by a desire to escape his racial reality. This makes his choice deeply flawed and morally questionable.