A Raisin in the Sun is a play by Lorraine Hansberry that explores the dreams and aspirations of an African American family living in Chicago in the 1950s. The play tackles themes of racial discrimination, economic inequality, and the power of dreams. Throughout the play, there are several quotes that highlight the characters’ hopes and desires for a better future.
One inspiring quote from A Raisin in the Sun is spoken by Walter Lee Younger, the protagonist of the play. He says, “I want so many things that they are driving me kind of crazy…Mama, sometimes when I’m downtown and I pass them cool, quiet-looking restaurants where them white boys are sitting back and talking ’bout things…sitting there turning deals worth millions of dollars…sometimes I see guys don’t look much older than me.” This quote highlights Walter’s yearning for financial success and his desire to escape the limitations imposed on him by society.
Another memorable quote from A Raisin in the Sun is spoken by Beneatha Younger, Walter’s sister. She says, “I want to be a doctor. That’s all there is to it.” Beneatha’s dream of becoming a doctor represents her ambition and determination to defy the stereotypes and expectations placed on black women at the time. Her dream serves as a symbol of hope and empowerment.
“Oh, I do, I do, I mean it. I want to fly…I want to touch it.” This quote is spoken by Walter’s wife, Ruth, and it reflects her longing for a better life. Ruth dreams of escaping the struggles and challenges of her current situation and reaching for something greater. It speaks to the universal desire for personal growth and happiness.
These inspiring dream quotes from A Raisin in the Sun remind us of the power of hope and ambition, even in the face of adversity. They serve as a testament to the resilience and determination of the human spirit, and they continue to resonate with audiences today.
The Inspiring Dream Quotes
The play “A Raisin in the Sun” is filled with inspiring and thought-provoking quotes about dreams. These quotes highlight the importance of having dreams and pursuing them, despite the obstacles that may come your way.
- “I want so many things that they are driving me kind of crazy…” – Beneatha Younger
- “…when it gets like that in life—you just got to do something different, push on out and do something bigger.” – Walter Lee Younger
- “Seems like God didn’t see fit to give the black man nothing but dreams – but He did give us children to make them dreams seem worthwhile.” – Lena Younger
- “…a woman should have the right to choose the sort of future she wants for herself.” – Ruth Younger
- “I’m trying to talk to you about myself and all you can say is eat them eggs and go to work…I’m not interested in eating them eggs!” – Beneatha Younger
These quotes demonstrate the characters’ desire for change and improvement in their lives. They show that dreams are not just whimsical fantasies, but a driving force that can lead to personal growth and fulfillment.
The play encourages us to question societal norms and expectations, and to have the courage to pursue our dreams, even if they may seem impossible or unconventional. It emphasizes the importance of having a vision for the future and taking action to make that vision a reality.
Overall, “A Raisin in the Sun” inspires us to reflect on our own dreams and aspirations and to never give up on them, no matter the challenges we may face.
Dreams That Can’t Be Deferred
A Raisin in the Sun explores the theme of dreams and their importance in one’s life. Throughout the play, various characters express their aspirations and ambitions, highlighting the significance of dreams that cannot be deferred. Here are some inspiring quotes that capture the essence of these dreams:
- “Beneatha: So I want to be something. I can’t just sit around all day waiting for you or Walter to come home so I can fix you a drink!”
- “Ruth: Walter, you ain’t been to see the doctor yet—and if he says you ain’t well, I don’t want nobody to tell you—you the head of this family. You run our lives like you want to.”
- “Mama: I seen… him… night after night… come in… and look at that rug… and then look at me… the red showing in his eyes… the veins moving in his head… I seen him… grow thin and old before he was forty… working and working… and wasn’t nothing to show for it… except a… girl… (Her voice is out of control.) Lord, if this little old plant don’t get more sun than it’s been getting it ain’t never going to see spring again.”
- “Beneatha: I want to be a doctor—a great big one—just like Dr. Stockmann, or Paul Whiteman or Papa”—it was almost singing in her ears and she felt nice inside simply at the remembering of the way she had loved him”
These quotes demonstrate how dreams can provide motivation and drive individuals to overcome obstacles. They highlight the desire for self-improvement, personal growth, and the pursuit of one’s passions. The characters in A Raisin in the Sun refuse to let their dreams be deferred and strive to achieve them against all odds.
| Character | Dream |
|---|---|
| Walter Younger | Opening a liquor store |
| Beneatha Younger | Becoming a doctor |
| Mama (Lena Younger) | Owning a house with a garden |
The dreams depicted in the play reflect the aspirations that many individuals experience in real life. They symbolize the hopes and ambitions that drive people to pursue their goals and find fulfillment in their lives.
Overall, A Raisin in the Sun teaches us the importance of holding onto our dreams and never allowing them to be deferred. It reminds us that dreams have the power to inspire, motivate, and transform lives, and that they should be pursued relentlessly despite any obstacles that may arise.
The Power of Hope and Vision
One of the central themes in A Raisin in the Sun is the power of hope and vision, and how these can shape a person’s life. Throughout the play, Lorraine Hansberry explores the dreams and aspirations of the Younger family, and the ways in which their hopes for a better future drive their actions.
The play revolves around the idea of the American Dream, the belief that anyone can achieve success and prosperity through hard work and determination. However, each character in the Younger family has a different interpretation of what this dream means to them.
Walter, the head of the household, dreams of becoming a successful business owner and providing a better life for his family. He believes that money is the key to happiness and sees his business venture as a way to achieve his dreams. His vision is fueled by his hope for a brighter future.
His sister, Beneatha, has a different dream. She wants to become a doctor and break the racial and gender barriers that stand in her way. She believes that education and knowledge are the means to achieve her vision. Her hope and determination drive her to pursue her dreams despite the challenges she faces.
Mama dreams of owning a house, a place where her family can thrive and find security. For her, owning a house represents stability and a better life for future generations. Her hope for a better future motivates her to make difficult decisions and take risks to achieve her dream.
Throughout the play, Hansberry highlights the power of these dreams and the impact they have on the characters. The hopes and visions of the Younger family serve as a driving force behind their actions, shaping their decisions and the paths they choose to follow.
By exploring the power of hope and vision, A Raisin in the Sun encourages its audience to reflect on their own dreams and aspirations. It reminds us of the importance of having a vision for the future and the determination to chase after our dreams, despite the obstacles that may arise.
The play serves as a powerful reminder that hope and vision can inspire us to push through adversity and work towards a better tomorrow. It reminds us that dreams have the power to transform lives and that with determination and perseverance, anything is possible.
Chasing Dreams in Difficult Times
In the play A Raisin in the Sun, Lorraine Hansberry explores the theme of chasing dreams amidst difficult times. Set in the 1950s, the Younger family, an African-American family living in a cramped apartment, faces various challenges that hinder their pursuit of their dreams. However, their determination and resilience serve as an inspiration and a testament to the power of dreams.
The Dream of a Better Life:
The Younger family’s dream is to escape the confines of their overcrowded apartment and move to a larger house in a better neighborhood. Their dream represents the desire for a better life, free from the limitations imposed by poverty and racial discrimination. Despite the obstacles they face, such as limited financial resources and societal prejudice, the Youngers remain determined to achieve their dream.
Perseverance in the Face of Adversity:
Throughout the play, the Youngers encounter numerous setbacks and difficulties. Walter Lee, the head of the household, faces rejection and disappointment when his business venture fails. Beneatha, Walter’s sister, struggles to define her identity and faces skepticism about her aspiration to become a doctor. However, both characters continue to pursue their dreams despite these obstacles, demonstrating their resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
The Importance of Unity:
The Younger family’s ability to persevere and chase their dreams is also attributed to their unity and support for one another. Despite their disagreements and differences, they come together as a family, offering each other encouragement and strength. They understand that by supporting one another, they can overcome the challenges they face and achieve their dreams.
The Dream Beyond Material Wealth:
While the Youngers’ dream initially revolves around material wealth and improved living conditions, the play also explores the idea that dream fulfillment goes beyond monetary gain. As the play progresses, the characters begin to realize that their dreams encompass broader aspirations, such as personal growth, self-actualization, and the eradication of racial prejudice. Through their struggles, they learn the importance of pursuing dreams that contribute to their own personal fulfillment and the betterment of society.
An Inspiration to Chase Dreams:
A Raisin in the Sun inspires its audience to chase their dreams despite the difficulties and challenges they may encounter. The Younger family’s resilience and determination serve as a reminder that dreams can be pursued and achieved, even in the most challenging circumstances. It serves as a call to action, urging individuals to overcome adversity and work towards their aspirations, regardless of the obstacles that stand in their way.
Perseverance in Pursuit of Dreams
Perseverance is an essential quality when it comes to pursuing dreams. In the play “A Raisin in the Sun,” the characters exemplify the power of perseverance in the face of adversity. Despite the challenges they face, each character remains steadfast in their pursuit of their dreams. Their stories serve as a reminder that dreams can only be achieved through determination and resilience.
One character who demonstrates remarkable perseverance is Mama. Despite being a widow and facing financial struggles, Mama remains determined to provide a better life for her family. She dreams of owning a house with a garden, where her children and grandchildren can thrive. Through hard work and unwavering faith, Mama manages to secure the money for the down payment on a house. Her perseverance becomes an inspiration to her family, showing them that dreams can be realized through persistence.
Walter Lee Younger is another character who embodies perseverance. He has a dream of owning a business and becoming a successful businessman. Despite facing numerous setbacks and disappointments, Walter Lee refuses to give up on his dream. His determination is evident when he rejects an offer to give up his dream in exchange for money. Instead, he chooses to pursue his dreams on his own terms, risking his family’s financial security. This decision showcases his unwavering belief in the importance of pursuing one’s dreams, no matter the cost.
Asagai, a Nigerian student, also exemplifies perseverance in the pursuit of dreams. He encourages Beneatha, Walter Lee’s sister, to embrace her African heritage and pursue her dreams of becoming a doctor. Despite facing racial prejudice and societal expectations, Beneatha remains determined to achieve her goals. She is willing to challenge the status quo and persevere through the obstacles standing in her way. Her strength and resilience serve as a reminder that pursuing dreams often requires perseverance and a willingness to go against the grain.
The theme of perseverance in pursuit of dreams resonates with audiences because it reflects the challenges and struggles many face in their own lives. Whether it’s overcoming financial difficulties, societal expectations, or personal setbacks, the characters in “A Raisin in the Sun” demonstrate the power of perseverance in achieving one’s dreams. Their stories inspire us to remain steadfast in our own pursuits and to never give up on our dreams, no matter the obstacles that may come our way.
The Freedom to Dream
The play A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry explores the theme of the American Dream and the freedom to dream. Throughout the play, the characters face various challenges and obstacles that test their determination and desire to achieve their dreams. The following quotes highlight the importance of dreaming and the pursuit of freedom:
- “Oh—that ain’t no business… we ain’t no business people, Ruth… we just plain working folks.” – Walter Younger acknowledges the societal limitations placed on him and dreams of becoming a successful businessman.
- “I want to be a doctor… it’s worth more than that even… and I’d do anything for you and for Travis. (almost for Lena) [really pleading] You know that.” – Beneatha Younger dreams of becoming a doctor and is determined to achieve her goal despite the financial constraints she faces.
- “Seem like God didn’t see fit to give the black man nothing but dreams – but He did give us children to make them dreams seem worthwhile.” – Lena Younger reflects on the struggles the black community faces but finds hope and purpose through her family and dreams for their future.
- “The white man ain’t gonna let you get nowhere with that case… You in his mouth here and he’s eatin’ you up!” – Walter Younger’s friend, Bobo, warns him about the challenges he might face as a black man trying to succeed in a society dominated by white privilege.
- “I come from five generations of people who was slaves and sharecroppers – but ain’t nobody in my family never let nobody pay ’em no money that was a way of telling us we wasn’t fit to walk the earth.” – Walter Younger reflects on his family’s history and the determination to rise above their circumstances.
The quotes above exemplify the characters’ struggles, hopes, and determination to overcome societal limitations and achieve their dreams, highlighting the importance of the freedom to dream and pursue a better future. Despite facing adversity, the characters in A Raisin in the Sun inspire us to never give up on our dreams and continue striving for a better tomorrow.
Dreams and Self-Discovery
One of the central themes in “A Raisin in the Sun” is the pursuit of dreams and how they can lead to self-discovery. Throughout the play, characters grapple with their own personal aspirations and desires, ultimately discovering who they truly are and what they are capable of.
The Younger family, particularly Walter Lee, Lena, and Beneatha, each have their own dreams that they long to achieve. These dreams act as a catalyst for self-discovery, forcing the characters to confront their own ambitions, values, and identities.
Walter Lee’s dream is to open a liquor store and become a successful businessman. Initially, his dream is solely driven by the desire for financial security and to provide a better life for his family. However, as the play progresses, Walter Lee realizes that his dream is not just about money, but about reclaiming his own dignity and proving himself as a man.
Lena’s dream is to buy a house for her family in a better neighborhood. For her, the house represents a physical manifestation of her hopes and aspirations for her family. Lena’s dream is not just about material possessions, but about creating a safe and nurturing environment for her loved ones.
Beneatha’s dream is to become a doctor and defy societal expectations placed on women of color. Through her pursuit of education and her desire to challenge traditional gender roles, Beneatha discovers her own strength, resilience, and determination.
As the characters chase their dreams, they face numerous obstacles and setbacks. These challenges force them to question their choices and reassess their priorities. Through these struggles, they each undergo a process of self-discovery, learning about their own strengths, weaknesses, and the depths of their desires.
The dream quotes in “A Raisin in the Sun” serve as powerful reminders of the importance of dreams and self-discovery. They highlight the human capacity for resilience, determination, and the pursuit of a better future. Despite the challenges and hardships faced by the characters, their dreams ultimately lead them on a path of self-discovery and personal growth.
| Character | Dream | Quote |
|---|---|---|
| Walter Lee | To open a liquor store | “I want so many things that they are driving me kind of crazy…Mama, sometimes when I’m downtown and I pass by them cool-quiet-looking restaurants where them white boys are sitting back and talking ’bout things…sitting there turning deals worth millions of dollars…sometimes I see guys don’t look much older than me…” |
| Lena | To buy a house | “I’m telling you to be the head of this family from now on…You’re thirty-five years old, man, and you been married eleven years and got a boy who sleeps in the living room–and all you can say is ‘Eat them eggs and go to work.'” |
| Beneatha | To become a doctor | “You don’t understand. You see, this was something worth while…I want so much to do all the things in the world that are worth while…I always thought it was important…to find out who I am.” |
These quotes not only demonstrate the characters’ dreams, but also the underlying motivations and desires that drive them. They illustrate the transformative power of dreams and how they can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself.
Ultimately, “A Raisin in the Sun” serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the pursuit of dreams as a means of self-discovery. It reminds us of the importance of embracing our aspirations and striving towards a better future, even in the face of adversity.
Dreams Unite, Not Divide
In the play “A Raisin in the Sun,” dreams play a central role in the lives of the Younger family. Each family member has their own dreams, and while these dreams may seem to divide the family initially, they ultimately have the power to unite them.
1. Walter’s Dream:
Walter dreams of starting his own business and becoming a successful businessman. He believes that money and success will bring pride and happiness to his family. Walter’s dream initially divides the family as they struggle to understand and support his ambitions. However, as the play progresses, Walter’s dream becomes a catalyst for change and unity within the family.
2. Mama’s Dream:
Mama’s dream is to own a house with a garden where the family can live in dignity and pride. She sees this dream as a way to provide a better future for her children and grandchildren. Mama’s dream becomes a symbol of hope and stability for the family, and eventually brings them closer together as they work towards achieving it.
3. Beneatha’s Dream:
Beneatha dreams of becoming a doctor and breaking the gender and racial stereotypes of her time. Her dream challenges the traditional expectations placed on women and inspires her to fight for equality. While Beneatha’s dream may seem to separate her from the rest of the family at times, it also pushes them to examine their own beliefs and prejudices, ultimately leading to a greater understanding and unity.
4. Ruth’s Dream:
Ruth’s dream is to have a stable and loving family life. She wants a safe and secure environment for her child to grow up in. Ruth’s dream aligns with Mama’s dream of owning a house, and it strengthens their bond as they work together to achieve it.
Conclusion:
The dreams in “A Raisin in the Sun” initially seem to divide the Younger family, reflecting the social and economic pressures they face. However, as the play progresses, these dreams become a driving force that unites them. The pursuit of their dreams forces the family to confront their individual and collective struggles, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding and appreciation for each other. In the end, their dreams serve as a reminder that unity and support are essential in overcoming obstacles and achieving a better future.
The inspiring dream quotes from A Raisin in the Sun
Overcoming Obstacles to Achieve Dreams
Obstacles are a natural part of pursuing one’s dreams, and the characters in Lorraine Hansberry’s play, A Raisin in the Sun, face numerous challenges on their journey towards achieving their aspirations. Through determination, resilience, and a shared vision, they are able to overcome these obstacles and work towards their dreams. Here are some inspiring quotes from the play that reflect the theme of overcoming obstacles.
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“Seems like God didn’t see fit to give the black man nothing but dreams – but He did give us children to make them dreams seem worth while.” – Lena Younger
This quote highlights the obstacles faced by the African-American community during this period of racial discrimination. Despite the challenges, Lena recognizes the importance of dreams and the role of future generations in achieving those dreams.
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“Then isn’t there something wrong in a house – in a world – where all dreams, good or bad, must depend on the death of a man?” – Walter Younger
Walter’s quote emphasizes the struggles and limitations the Younger family faces due to their financial situation. He questions the injustice in a society where dreams are dependent on external factors, such as the death of a loved one.
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“I don’t want to wait no more.” – Beneatha Younger
Beneatha’s words signify her determination and impatience to pursue her dreams without any further delay. She refuses to let societal expectations or financial obstacles hinder her aspirations.
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“Child, when do you think is the time to love somebody the most? When they done good and made things easy for everybody? That ain’t the time at all. It’s when he’s at his lowest and can’t believe in hisself ‘cause the world done whipped him so!” – Lena Younger
Lena imparts an important lesson about love and support in difficult times. She emphasizes that true love and support should be given when someone is facing challenges and doubts. It is during these lowest moments that one’s faith and belief in themselves can be restored.
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“Sometimes you just got to know when to give up some things… and just hold on to what you got.” – Walter Younger
Walter’s quote reflects the importance of adjusting and finding a balance between holding onto dreams and letting go of certain things. Sometimes, it is necessary to make sacrifices to achieve long-term goals.
These quotes from A Raisin in the Sun serve as a reminder that dreams are worth pursuing, even in the face of obstacles. By remaining determined, resilient, and supporting each other, individuals can overcome challenges and work towards their aspirations.
Question and answer:
What is the play “A Raisin in the Sun” about?
The play “A Raisin in the Sun” is about the Younger family, who live in a small apartment in Chicago and struggle with various challenges. The family members have different dreams and aspirations, and the play explores how they navigate their individual dreams and the obstacles they face.
Who wrote the play “A Raisin in the Sun”?
The play “A Raisin in the Sun” was written by Lorraine Hansberry. It was first produced in 1959 and was the first play written by an African-American woman to be produced on Broadway.
What are some examples of dreams in “A Raisin in the Sun”?
In “A Raisin in the Sun,” the characters have various dreams and aspirations. For example, Walter dreams of opening a liquor store with the insurance money from his father’s death. Beneatha dreams of becoming a doctor and pursuing her education. Lena dreams of owning a home for her family. These dreams serve as the driving force for the characters and shape the events of the play.