A Raisin in the Sun blog #4

A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry

Aside from the actual meaning and plot of the play, there are certain tools and literary techniques that add to plays profound story. First being the very acute vernacular used in the writing style. Hansberry creates a very visual aspect to those reading the play, which allows for a more vivid and deeper understanding of the characters lifestyles and daily behaviors. Not only does the vernacular used in the play reveal the Younger family's way of speaking, but indirectly exposes the families lack of education. This can be seen when Mama says,"We ain't never been no people to act silly 'bout no money"(Hansberry, 68). A noticeable change can be seen with Beneatha though when compared to her family. Unlike the others, Beneatha speaks with an educated, profound efficiency. This could be interpreted as Beneatha's escape from the life the rest of her family lives. Whereas her family is stuck in an inescapable rut, Beneath has the potential to make a life for herself and be the independent woman she has always dreamed of. Though vernacular may be seen as an insignificant technique, this play emphasizes the power words have when revealing characterization.