Harlem by Langston Hughes Theme

Harlem by Langston Hughes theme is what happens to a dream that is constantly deferred; its like a raisin basking in the sun, then finally exploding. Some get angry, some get upset, some get motivated. Does the dream completely dissipate, or does it just get adjusted? The play “Raisin in the Sun” AUTHOR illustrates just that. Raisin in the Sun is about a family that envisions a dream, working hard for it, but have troubles achieving there goals. Raisin in the sun shows how living in a world of racism leads to dreams deferred.

We see Benetheas struggle withher dream because of money and social stigma. She loses her hopes of attending medical school from the get go due to her color and gender. Benethea is even made fun of by own family for trying to become a doctor as a woman; Walte says “..If you so crazy ‘bout messing ‘round with sick people – then go be a nurse like other women” (quote), suggesting that woman should not be doctors. As the poem progresses Benetheas dream is even more deffered when she finds out Walter didn't put any of the money towards her medical school, from the check the family received.

Walter wants to live a luxury lifestyle throughout the play. He feels like he is trapped in his chauffeur job and that life and success is all about money. Referring to money being the most important thing, Walter says “No – it was always money, Mama. We just didn’t know about it.” (Quote). However, towards the end of the play we see Walters dream deffered (arguably for the better). Walter seems to understand that money is not as important as unity, love, and familY, and his dreams seem attainable again.

Unlike Walter, Mama cares more about love versus material things, or in other words money. This is evident when she says she will donate the $10,000 check to charity. Mama says, “So now it’s life. Money is life. Once upon a time freedom used to be life—now it’s money. I guess the

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