The American Dream is the notion that every citizen of the United States should have an equal opportunity to achieve success and wealth through hard work. For many people, this idea gives them hope during their journey to America and their first few years in the new country. In The Raisin in the Sun, readers learn of the different dreams that the members of the Younger family have for their homes. Walter believes that the money should be invested in a liqueor store, while Mama believes that it should be used on a new house for Travis, Walter’s son. One of the deciding factors in the decision is a check for $10,000. This check presents the funds needed to support either Walter or Mama’s dream. Due to the current situation of the Younger family,
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Mama presents her idea when she says, “Been thinking that we maybe could meet the notes on a little old two-story somewhere, with a yard where Travis could play in the summertime” (8). In this fairytale like plan, the focus is seemingly on Travis, the child. Mama seems to want the best for him and to put him before the rest of the family. Compared to Walter’s idea, this appears to be a much more caring investment, rather than a self-driven one. In addition, Ruth says, “Now that's your money. It ain't got nothing to do with me. We all feel like that Walter and Bennie and me, even, Travis” (8). In support of Mama’s dream, it can be argued that the house would be a sounder investment because in the end, it is Mama’s check. With this said, it is her decision whether the money is spent on a liquor store, or a two-story house, not Walter’s. Mama’s investment also includes much less risk than that of Walter. Ruth says, “Walter Lee say colored people ain't never going to start getting ahead till they start gambling on some different kinds of things in the world - investments and things” (8). In Mama’s dream plan, the Youngers would simply purchase the house and then everyone would be “happy”
Mama presents her idea when she says, “Been thinking that we maybe could meet the notes on a little old two-story somewhere, with a yard where Travis could play in the summertime” (8). In this fairytale like plan, the focus is seemingly on Travis, the child. Mama seems to want the best for him and to put him before the rest of the family. Compared to Walter’s idea, this appears to be a much more caring investment, rather than a self-driven one. In addition, Ruth says, “Now that's your money. It ain't got nothing to do with me. We all feel like that Walter and Bennie and me, even, Travis” (8). In support of Mama’s dream, it can be argued that the house would be a sounder investment because in the end, it is Mama’s check. With this said, it is her decision whether the money is spent on a liquor store, or a two-story house, not Walter’s. Mama’s investment also includes much less risk than that of Walter. Ruth says, “Walter Lee say colored people ain't never going to start getting ahead till they start gambling on some different kinds of things in the world - investments and things” (8). In Mama’s dream plan, the Youngers would simply purchase the house and then everyone would be “happy”