Open Water Summary
Caleb Azumah Nelson

Open Water Overview

Open Water, a novel by Caleb Axumah Nelson, covers about a year in the life of a young Black man who is a budding photographer. He meets and falls in love with a young Black woman who is a dancer, even though she is involved with one of the photographer's friends at the time. As they consider the undeniable connection they feel, they learn about themselves and each other through the viewpoint of a narrator who directly addresses the photographer. The novel's main themes are the pros and cons of being seen, racial bias, the limitations of communication, and the creative spirit. Cultural elements serve as a motif throughout the novel.