A Raisin in the Sun Through the course of life, all have dreams, but not all accomplish those dreams at their desired time. In Lorraine Hansberry's A Raisin in the Sun, the Youngers' dreams were delayed due to a capricious disaster. Lena Younger, also known as Mama, received a check for ten thousand dollars because of Mr. Younger's death. When Willy Harris ran off with the money, they were devastated as if a spear pierced through their hearts. Fortunately, the dreams were only deferred, rather than dispersed. Even though their dreams may change in form through time, the dream is still the essence of life and people strive together to achieve them.
Webster's Dictionary defines dream as "an aspiration; goal; aim: Traveling to Europe is his lifelong dream". Beneatha also had a lifelong dream that was unheard of at her period. She wanted to become a doctor in America someday.
Taliaferro, Lt. Walter
J.G. Smith, Lily Smith, Walter Brickett (LOC)
Taliaferro, Lt. WalterWomen at the time were viewed as inferior compared to men. Walter, her brother, told her to "be a nurse like other woman "" or just get married and be quiet"æ (p. 26)" Ignoring the discrimination, Beneatha continues to work toward her dream. When Beneatha knew that the money for her education is lost, she also knew becoming a doctor in America is impossible. Finally, Asagai asked her to marry him and return to their native land, Africa. The end of the book hinted a change in her dream, because she said she might "go to Africa, Mama "" be a doctor in Africa"æ (p. 129)". Even though some dreams may never be achieved, the foundation of it remains and changes to something more suitable under the provided circumstances.
To many, the primary purpose of life is to live the dreams. Dreams are the key to joys and sorrows...