The Significance of Lena Younger's Dream Plant in "A Raisin in The Sun"

Imagine a world where dreams are nurtured, where hope can grow even in the harshest conditions. In Lorraine Hansberry's play, "A Raisin in the Sun," Lena Younger's dream plant symbolizes the resilience and determination of the African American community amidst racial oppression. This essay will explore the significance of Lena Younger's dream plant, analyzing its representation of hope, growth, and the pursuit of a better future. Through a close examination of the text, we will observe how this symbol aligns with the themes of the play, highlighting the struggles and aspirations of the Younger family.

The Symbolic Representation of Hope and Aspiration

Throughout "A Raisin in the Sun," Lena Younger's dream plant serves as a powerful symbol of hope and aspiration. The plant, which Lena carefully tends to, represents her desire for a better life for herself and her family. Just as Lena nurtures the plant with love and care, she also nurtures her dreams, refusing to let the harsh realities of racial discrimination extinguish her hope.

One instance where the plant symbolizes hope is in Act I, when Lena receives the insurance check following her husband's death. Instead of spending the money on material possessions, Lena decides to use it to buy a house for her family. This decision showcases her unwavering belief in the power of dreams, as she sees the house as a tangible manifestation of her aspirations. The plant, accompanying her in the new house, becomes a constant reminder of the hope she carries within her.

Evidence from the text supports this interpretation. In Act II, scene i, Lena states, "It expresses me... It tells me to take hold, to put my roots down in something, and I'll be less likely to be blown away" (Hansberry 48). Lena's words reveal the plant's significance as a symbol of stability and resilience. Just as the plant needs strong roots to withstand external forces, Lena believes that by pursuing her dreams, she can anchor herself and her family amidst the turbulent circumstances they face.

This symbolism is further reinforced by the plant's physical growth throughout the play. As the Younger family faces various obstacles, including racism and financial hardships, the plant continues to thrive. Its growth represents the family's ability to persevere and flourish despite the challenges they encounter. The plant becomes a source of inspiration, reminding Lena and her family of their resilience and capacity for growth.

The Plant as a Reflection of the African American Community

Beyond its representation of hope and aspiration, Lena Younger's dream plant also symbolizes the endurance and strength of the African American community as a whole. In a society that systematically oppresses them, the plant serves as a metaphor for the African American struggle for equality and freedom.

In Act II, scene iii, Lena tells her daughter, Beneatha, "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!" (Hansberry 61). Lena's words highlight the plant's significance beyond her individual dreams. Just as she tends to the plant during its most vulnerable moments, she emphasizes the importance of supporting and loving each other in times of hardship. The plant, therefore, becomes a symbol of collective resilience, representing the strength of the African American community to rise above adversity.

Additionally, the plant's association with nature and growth signifies the African American community's connection to their ancestral roots. Despite the attempts to disconnect them from their heritage, African Americans have managed to retain their cultural identity and traditions. The plant symbolizes this resilience, highlighting the community's ability to grow and flourish against all odds.

The Plant as a Catalyst for Change

Besides its symbolic representation of hope and the African American community, Lena Younger's dream plant also acts as a catalyst for change within the Younger family. As the play progresses, the plant becomes a symbol of unity and transformation, inspiring the characters to confront their fears and pursue their dreams.

One significant moment where the plant symbolizes transformation is in Act III, when Beneatha decides to cut the plant down. Frustrated by the limitations placed upon her as a woman in a patriarchal society, Beneatha symbolically rejects the traditional roles assigned to her. By cutting down the plant, she rebels against societal expectations and asserts her own individuality and aspirations.

However, it is important to note that the plant's destruction does not signify the end of hope. On the contrary, it becomes a turning point for the Younger family. Lena, recognizing the importance of dreams and unity, encourages her family to come together and support each other's aspirations. The plant's absence becomes a catalyst for change, pushing the characters to reevaluate their priorities and recommit themselves to pursuing a better future.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Lena Younger's dream plant in "A Raisin in the Sun" symbolizes the resilience, hope, and aspirations of the African American community. Through its representation of growth, endurance, and collective strength, the plant becomes a powerful metaphor for the struggles and dreams of the Younger family. As the play unfolds, the plant acts as a catalyst for transformation, inspiring the characters to confront their fears and pursue their own individual aspirations. Ultimately, Lena's dream plant serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, hope can thrive and dreams can flourish.

By exploring the significance of Lena Younger's dream plant, we gain a deeper understanding of the themes and messages conveyed in "A Raisin in the Sun." This symbol not only adds depth to the characters and their struggles but also reflects upon the broader experiences of the African American community. It reminds us of the power of hope and the resilience of the human spirit, even in the most challenging circumstances.

Bibliography:

Hansberry, Lorraine. "A Raisin in the Sun." Vintage Books, 1994.