Symbolism. A Raisin in the Sun. 5

     Without symbolism, this story would lost much of what makes it deep.  It is a vital portion of the play that will be passed up if not read with intent to discover the underlying themes of the play.  Initially, that little plant that Mama kept in the sole window frame of the apartment seems minuscule and insignificant.  However, we we I read the end of the play, I realized the importance of that little plant.  It clearly was a metaphor for the family and how it is doing.  "Lord, if this little old plant dont get more sun that it's been getting it aint never going to see spring again"(Hansberry, 40).  I feel Hansberry in, A Raisin in the Sun, purposefully put that dialogue said my mother directing following a fight between Walter and Bennie.  This comment is meant to imply that if things do not change from the direction that they are heading right now, things will not turn out okay.  Also, later on in the play, Mama states that she will be able to cultivate a garden at the new house.  I believe that Hansberry is trying to convey that the family will flourish in their new environment.  The new tools, as a gift to Mama, represent the cause of what will nourish the new family.  Symbolism was mostly conveyed through plant life and by doing this, Hansberry added a required depth to the work.