A Raisin in the Sun

A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry

"This morning, I was lookin' in the mirror and thinking about it... I'm thrity-five years old; I been married eleven years and I got a boy who sleeps in the living room - and all I got to give him is stories about how rich white people live..." (Hansberry, page 34).

A clash of opinions within the Younger household is made apparent in the first scene of the play. Walter, more than anything, wants to excel by starting his own liquor shop. Although Ruth and Mama are pushing him away from his idea, he feels the need to start the shop in order to make a better way of life for his family. Walter hopes to attain a lifestyle where his son does not have to sleep in the living room or worry about money for his family. Much like Walter, Beneatha wants a better lifestyle for herself by getting an education and being able to support herself without a man. Ruth, on the other hand, wants nothing to do with Walter and Beneatha's dreams and acts as a contrast to their ideas. Each time Walter would mention his aspiration of his store, she found reasons why everything was not good enough. Furthermore, Ruth and Beneatha act as direct contrasts in appearance and attitude. While Ruth is older, a homemaker, and rougher in complexion, Beneatha is younger, educated, and handsome. 

A symbol that is seeming apparent is money. A contrast between Ruth and Beneatha put the symbol to the test. Ruth believes money is what brings the man and the love will follow. Beneatha  would much rather provide for herself and find love in a man.