A Raisin in the Sun, written by Lorraine Hansberry, is a powerful play that explores themes of racial discrimination, dreams, and the pursuit of happiness. Set in the 1950s in Chicago’s South Side, the play tells the story of the Younger family as they grapple with the challenges of living in a society that is hostile towards their dreams and aspirations. Throughout the play, there are many memorable quotes that encapsulate the characters’ desires, frustrations, and hopes for a better future.
One of the most famous quotes from A Raisin in the Sun is, “What happens to a dream deferred? Does it dry up like a raisin in the sun?” This quote, spoken by the character Langston Hughes, serves as the inspiration for the play’s title and encapsulates the central theme of deferred dreams. It highlights the frustration and disappointment that comes from delaying or denying one’s aspirations. This quote resonates with audiences and prompts reflection on the consequences of not pursuing one’s dreams.
Another powerful quote from the play is spoken by the character Walter Lee Younger: “I want so many things that they are driving me kind of crazy.” This quote reflects Walter’s deep desire for success and a better life for himself and his family. It captures the desperation and frustration he feels as he tries to overcome the obstacles that stand in the way of his dreams. This quote humanizes Walter and highlights the universal desire for a better future.
Read these quotes in A Raisin in the Sun
“There is always something left to love.” – Mama
“Sometimes it’s like I can see the future stretched out in front of me – just plain as day.” – Walter Lee Younger
“I’m going to be a doctor. I’m not worried about who I’m going to marry yet.” – Beneatha Younger
“I want to fly somewhere on a plane. I want to ride on a train. I want to see things, and I want to be somebody.” – Travis Younger
“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 worth while.” – Lena Younger
“You name it son… and I hand you the world!” – Walter Lee Younger
“Something has changed. You something new, boy. In my time we was worried about not being lynched and getting to the north if we could and how to stay alive and still have a pinch of dignity too… Now here come you and Beneatha – talking ’bout things we ain’t never even thought about hardly, me and your daddy.” – Ruth Younger
“I just seen my family falling apart today… just falling to pieces in front of my eyes.” – Walter Lee Younger
“Son – what do you want to be?” – Lena Younger
“I ain’t never stop trusting you. Like I ain’t never stop loving you.” – Ruth Younger
“Mama, something is happening between Walter and me. I don’t know what it is – but he needs something – something I can’t give him anymore. He needs this chance, Lena.” – Ruth Younger
“You read books – to learn facts – to get grades – to pass the course – that ain’t nothing.” – Walter Lee Younger
“We one group of men tied to a race of women with small minds.” – Walter Lee Younger
“We have decided to move into our house because my father – my father – he earned it for us brick by brick.” – Travis Younger
“Beneatha: Love him? There is nothing left to love. Mama: There is always something left to love. And if you ain’t learned that, you ain’t learned nothing.” – Beneatha Younger, Mama
“Walter: That’s it! There you are. Man say to his woman: I got me a dream. His woman say: Eat your eggs. Man say: I got to take hold of this here world, baby! And a woman will say: Eat your eggs and go to work. Man say: I got to change my life, I’m choking to death, baby! And his woman say – Your eggs is getting cold!” – Walter Lee Younger
“What you ain’t never understood is that I ain’t got nothing, don’t own nothing, ain’t never really wanted nothing that wasn’t for you.” – Walter Lee Younger
“You a good man, Brother. You a gentleman. You ain’t never been nothing but a good son and a good brother. And God knows I love you.” – Ruth Younger
“You run our lives like you want to. It was your money and you did what you wanted with it. So what you so mad about?” – Beneatha Younger
“I’m telling you to be the head of this family from now on like you supposed to be.” – Lena Younger
“Beneatha: It’s all a matter of ideas, and God is just one idea I don’t accept. I am not even sure He existed. Mama: Well, I’ll put it like this. You going out of here wrapped up in some idea – God or no God.” – Beneatha Younger, Mama
These quotes from A Raisin in the Sun offer a glimpse into the struggles, dreams, and relationships of the Younger family. They remind us of the universal desire for a better life and the challenges that often stand in the way. Lorraine Hansberry’s play continues to resonate with audiences today, as it explores timeless themes of hope, identity, and the pursuit of happiness.
