Money and Money

A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry

"Well - I don't understand why you people are reacting this way. What do you think you are going to gain by moving into a neighborhood where you just aren't wanted and where some elements - well - people can get awful worked up when they feel that their whole way of life and everything they've ever worked for is threatened" (Hansberry, page 118).

Many negative aspects come along with being a black person in Chicago during the time of this play. Walter has experienced different aspects throughout the play. Most importantly, Linder becomes a major negative aspect to Walter's surroundings when he comes to the apartment in Act 2, Scene 3. While Linder attempts to persuade the Youngers to not move into their new home, Walter is offended and fixes the situation by kicking Linder out of the house. Furthermore, Walter experiences similar negative aspects to being black as he is embarking on his business deal. Ruth points out that it is harder for him to get a deal because he is black so Walter seeks to prove Ruth wrong. Walter also changes his life story when he speaks to George. He finds George telling of his great journeys to expensive cities. Walter uses this to attempt to change his life story in order to fit into the situation at hand. 

When Walter reveals he loses the money in Act 2, Scene 3, he displays that he will do anything to get what he wants. By losing his sister's college money, he selfishly takes from the family in a selfish act. Walter attempted to use the money to find a new way of life but instead creates a "point of no return" for his family as he has lost vital money for himself and his sister.

Chicago Blacks

A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry

"Ain't it something how bad these here white folks is getting here in Chicago! Lord, getting so you think you right down in Mississippi!" (Hansberry, page 100).

The setting begins to play an important role as the play transcends into Act 2, Scene 2. As Chicago is turning into a society against blacks, the Youngers are facing their dilemma of moving. Mrs. Johnson tries to persuade them against moving to a white neighborhood where their safety is put into danger. The setting adds to the overall mood of the play as their suppressed black heritage is holding the Youngers back from achieving their dreams and potential.

Furthermore, in the same conversation with Mrs. Johnson and Mama, a contrast between Mrs. Johnson and Mama became apparent in their differing opinion on the situation of black people in Chicago. With a differing opinion on topics including Booker T. Washington and job potential, Mama and Mrs. Johnson obviously contrasted each other. Mrs. Johnson also takes a jab at the Younger's home as she called them a "proud-acting bunch of colored folks" (Hansberry, page 103). 

A "point of no return" occurred when Mama decided to allow Walter to handle the money. I was surprised when Mama decided to give Walter the money as she seemed set in her ways that she did not agree with Walter's plan. Mama's feeling that she needed to give Walter his chance to live his dream was a risk that she took in order to make her son raise his esteem.