Explore the Insightful and Timeless Walter Quotes from Raisin In The Sun
Are you looking for a good laugh? Well, look no further than the character of Walter in Lorraine Hansberry's play, A Raisin in the Sun. Walter is full of humorous quotes that will have you chuckling in no time. Let's take a closer look at some of his best lines.
First up, we have Walter's classic line, Damn my eggs... damn all the eggs that ever was! This quote comes early on in the play and sets the tone for Walter's character. He's frustrated with his life and feels like he's been dealt a bad hand. But instead of wallowing in self-pity, he chooses to express his anger in a comical way.
Another great Walter quote is, I'm a volcano. I'm waiting to erupt. This line perfectly captures Walter's pent-up anger and frustration. He's tired of being held back by his circumstances and is ready to make a change. But like a volcano, he knows that his anger needs to build up before it can be unleashed.
Of course, not all of Walter's quotes are meant to be funny. One of his most poignant lines is, When you starts measuring somebody, measure him right, child, measure him right. Make sure you done taken into account what hills and valleys he come through before he got to wherever he is. This quote speaks to the importance of recognizing someone's struggles and hardships before judging them. It's a powerful message that still resonates today.
But let's get back to the humor. One of Walter's funniest moments is when he tells his son, Eat your eggs, son. They got a lot of iron in 'em. That's what you need. Iron. And plenty of it. Like Popeye. This line is a perfect example of Walter's tendency to mix up his cultural references. He's trying to be a good father and give his son some nutritional advice, but he can't help but throw in a reference to the cartoon character Popeye.
Another great Walter quote is, Money is life. Once upon a time freedom used to be life—now it's money. I guess the world really do change. This line speaks to the harsh realities of life for many people, especially those living in poverty. Money may not buy happiness, but it can certainly buy security and stability.
One of Walter's most memorable quotes comes near the end of the play when he says, We have decided to move into our house because my father—he earned it for us brick by brick. This line is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices that previous generations have made for their children. It's also a testament to Walter's growth as a character. He starts out the play only thinking of himself, but by the end, he's willing to make sacrifices for his entire family.
Of course, no discussion of Walter's quotes would be complete without mentioning his famous line, Ain't nobody business but my own. This line is Walter's way of asserting his independence and autonomy. He's tired of everyone telling him what to do and how to live his life. It's a sentiment that many people can relate to.
In conclusion, Walter is a character who is full of humor, heart, and wisdom. His quotes are a perfect example of the play's themes of family, identity, and the American Dream. Whether he's making you laugh or making you think, Walter is a character who will stick with you long after the play is over.
Introduction
Raisin in the Sun is a timeless classic by Lorraine Hansberry that tells the story of the Younger family, an African-American family living in Chicago's South Side. One of the main characters in the play is Walter Lee Younger, a man who dreams of becoming wealthy and providing a better life for his family. Throughout the play, Walter Lee delivers some memorable quotes that are both humorous and insightful. In this article, we will explore some of Walter Lee's most humorous quotes.
Walter's Dream of Wealth
Walter Lee's dream of becoming wealthy is one of the driving forces behind his character. He believes that money can solve all of his problems and provide a better life for his family. However, his obsession with wealth often leads to comical situations. One of his most humorous quotes is when he says, I want so many things that they are driving me kind of crazy. This quote shows how Walter Lee's desire for wealth has become overwhelming and is affecting his mental state.
Walter's Frustration with Life
Walter Lee is a frustrated man who feels trapped in his current situation. He believes that he is capable of achieving greatness but is being held back by society and his own circumstances. One of his most humorous quotes is when he says, Sometimes it's like I can see the future stretched out in front of me - just plain as day... the future looks like... a big, looming blankness. This quote shows how Walter Lee's frustration with life has led him to feel hopeless about the future.
Walter and His Sister Beneatha
Walter Lee's relationship with his sister Beneatha is one of the most complex in the play. They often argue about their different views on life and their dreams for the future. One of Walter Lee's most humorous quotes is when he says, Who the hell told you you had to be a doctor? If you so crazy 'bout messing 'round with sick people - then go be a nurse like other women - or just get married and be quiet... This quote shows how Walter Lee is frustrated with his sister's aspirations and believes that she should conform to traditional gender roles.
Walter's Relationship with Ruth
Walter Lee's relationship with his wife Ruth is another important aspect of his character. They often argue about money and their different views on life. One of Walter Lee's most humorous quotes is when he says, Well, you tell that to my boy tonight when you put him to sleep on the living room couch... tell him how deeply depressing it is to watch a person sleep on a couch when you know you bought them a house. This quote shows how Walter Lee is frustrated with his current living situation and believes that he deserves better.
Walter's Disappointment with His Father
Walter Lee's disappointment with his father is a recurring theme in the play. He feels that his father did not provide for his family and left them with nothing. One of his most humorous quotes is when he says, Papa was a rolling stone... wherever he laid his hat was his home. This quote shows how Walter Lee is frustrated with his father's lack of responsibility and how he has been forced to pick up the pieces.
Walter's Redemption
One of the most powerful moments in the play is when Walter Lee finally realizes the error of his ways and decides to do what is best for his family. He turns down an offer to sell the family's home and decides to invest the money in a new business venture. One of his most humorous quotes during this scene is when he says, I'm a volcano... I'm waiting to erupt. This quote shows how Walter Lee's passion and determination have been reignited and how he is ready to take on the world.
Walter's Final Words
In the final scene of the play, Walter Lee delivers a powerful monologue that has become one of the most iconic moments in American theater. He speaks about the importance of dreams and the need for people to fight for what they believe in. One of his most humorous quotes during this scene is when he says, We all tied up in a race of people that don't know how to do nothing but moan, pray and have babies! This quote shows how Walter Lee is frustrated with the limitations placed on African-Americans and how he is determined to break free from them.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Walter Lee Younger is a complex and multifaceted character who delivers some of the most memorable quotes in Raisin in the Sun. His humorous quotes provide a glimpse into his personality and his struggles with life. Despite the challenges he faces, Walter Lee ultimately finds redemption and inspires others to pursue their dreams. His words continue to resonate with audiences today and serve as a reminder of the importance of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity.
Raisin In The Sun Walter Quotes
Who needs medical school and a respected profession when you can just settle for being a wife? That's the mentality Walter seems to have in Lorraine Hansberry's Raisin In The Sun. His response to his sister's desire to become a doctor is not one of encouragement, but rather an attempt to steer her towards more appropriate female roles.
Because taking on the stress of fighting for your family's financial future is so much better than just kicking back with a cold one.
Walter's concerns about alcohol consumption are not unfounded, but his timing could use some work. When his mother offers him a drink, he responds with a dire warning about the dangers of drinking in their neighborhood. Because clearly, dealing with poverty and racism is not stressful enough--let's add the pressure of sobriety to the mix.
Because nothing says uplifting family drama like a good dose of cannibalism.
When Walter learns that his mother has put a down payment on a house using insurance money from her late husband, he is understandably upset. But his response--that the money is made out of his father's flesh--seems a bit extreme. Maybe a more appropriate response would be to thank his mother for her sacrifice and work together to make the most of their new home.
Because what better way to inspire your son's creativity than piling on the guilt?
When Walter shows off his new business idea to his son, Travis, he can't help but add a passive-aggressive comment about how often Travis visits. Because clearly, the best way to encourage your child's artistic talents is to make them feel guilty for not spending enough time with you.
Hey, nothing says proud homeowner like diminishing the efforts of the rest of your family.
When Walter gives a speech about moving into their new home, he makes sure to emphasize that it was his father who earned it for them. Because apparently, the efforts of the rest of the family--including his mother's sacrifice--were not worth mentioning.
Great attitude, Walter--but maybe don't sound so eager when discussing potentially life-altering decisions.
When Walter offers to do whatever it takes to make his family's dreams come true, his mother asks him to promise not to do anything foolish. His response? Just tell me where you want me to do it, Mama, and I'll do it. While his enthusiasm is admirable, maybe a little caution wouldn't hurt.
Because who wants stable income and job security when you can just wing it in the cutthroat world of entrepreneurship?
When Walter suggests that his sister pursue a career in business instead of medicine, he seems to be forgetting that not everyone is cut out for entrepreneurship. While it's admirable to want to take risks and make a name for yourself, it's also important to have a backup plan.
Ah, yes: the age-old strategy of tearing down half of your family in order to bolster your own ego.
When Walter feels oppressed by the women in his life, he lashes out with the classic sexist insult: We one group of men tied to a race of women with small minds. Because clearly, the fact that his female relatives are struggling to survive in a racist and sexist society has nothing to do with their intelligence or capabilities.
Who needs specifics when you can just hint ominously at your plan?
When Walter tells his son that he's going to make a business transaction that will change their lives, he doesn't offer any details. While it's important to keep some things private, it's also important to communicate clearly with your loved ones--especially when big changes are on the horizon.
You heard it here first, folks: Walter is not just a man, but a geological phenomenon.
When Walter describes himself as a volcano waiting to explode, he's not exactly painting a flattering picture of himself. While it's understandable that he's under a lot of pressure, it's also important to find healthy ways to cope with stress--rather than just waiting for an explosive outburst.
In conclusion, Walter's quotes in Raisin In The Sun provide plenty of insight into his character--both good and bad. While his determination to improve his family's situation is admirable, his tendency to lash out and belittle those around him is not. Ultimately, Walter serves as a reminder that while the fight for equality and justice can be inspiring, it can also be messy and complicated--and that even the most well-intentioned people can make mistakes along the way.
The Adventures of Walter in Raisin In The Sun
Introduction
In the play Raisin In The Sun, Walter Younger is a dynamic character who is constantly searching for ways to improve his family's financial situation. Throughout the play, Walter makes several humorous quotes that reveal his personality and his point of view.
Walter's Quotes
Here are some of Walter's most memorable quotes:
- Damn my eggs...damn all the eggs that ever was!
- I'm a volcano. I'm waiting to erupt.
- You read some Marxist something and you're full of big words.
These quotes show Walter's frustration with his current situation and his desire for change. He is tired of living in poverty and wants to provide a better life for his family.
Walter's Point of View
From Walter's perspective, the world is unfair and stacked against him. He believes that the only way to succeed is to take risks and make bold moves. He wants to start his own business and become a successful entrepreneur, but he struggles to gain the support of his family.
The Importance of Family
Despite their disagreements, Walter cares deeply about his family. He wants to provide for them and make sure they have a better future. However, his impulsive nature and desire for instant gratification often get in the way of his goals.
The Importance of Dreams
Walter's quotes also reveal his belief in the power of dreams. He believes that if he works hard enough, he can achieve anything he sets his mind to. However, he also recognizes the challenges and obstacles that stand in his way.
Conclusion
Overall, Walter is a complex and dynamic character who adds humor and depth to Raisin In The Sun. His quotes and point of view reveal his struggles, hopes, and dreams, making him an important part of the play's themes and messages.
Closing Message: Don't Be a Walter, Be a Winner
And that's a wrap, folks! We've delved deep into the world of Raisin In The Sun and explored the character of Walter Lee Younger. From his struggles with identity and masculinity to his dreams of financial success, we've seen the highs and lows of this complex character.
But let's be real, Walter isn't exactly a role model. Sure, he has his moments of determination and resilience, but more often than not he lets his emotions get the best of him. He puts his own desires above the needs of his family and makes some pretty questionable decisions along the way.
So, what can we learn from Walter? Well, for starters, we can learn what not to do. Don't blow your family's money on a risky business venture without consulting them first. Don't lash out at your loved ones when you're feeling down. And definitely don't let your ego get in the way of doing what's right.
But beyond that, we can also learn from Walter's mistakes. We can see how his desire for success and validation stems from a deep-seated insecurity and lack of self-worth. We can understand the pressure he feels as a black man in a society that values material wealth above all else. And we can empathize with his struggle to balance his own aspirations with his responsibilities to his family.
Ultimately, though, we should strive to be more than just Walter. We should aim to be like Beneatha, who pursues her dreams without losing sight of her values. We should emulate Mama, who puts her family first even when it's difficult. And we should take inspiration from Ruth, who holds everything together when things start to fall apart.
So, dear readers, don't be a Walter. Be a winner. Learn from his mistakes, but don't let them define you. Instead, focus on what truly matters in life: your relationships, your values, and your own sense of self-worth. And who knows? Maybe one day you'll find yourself living out your dreams without sacrificing the things that truly make life worth living.
Thanks for joining me on this journey through Raisin In The Sun and Walter's story. I hope you've gained some insight into this iconic play and its characters, and that you'll continue to explore the world of literature and storytelling with an open mind and a curious heart.
Until next time, keep on dreaming, keep on striving, and keep on being the best version of yourself that you can be. See you soon!
People Also Ask about Raisin in the Sun Walter Quotes
Who is Walter in A Raisin in the Sun?
Walter Lee Younger is the protagonist of Lorraine Hansberry's play, A Raisin in the Sun. He is a 35-year-old African American man who dreams of a better life for himself and his family.
What are some famous Walter quotes from A Raisin in the Sun?
Here are some of Walter's most memorable quotes:
- Seem like God didn't see fit to give the black man nothing but dreams - but He did give us children to make them dreams seem worth while.
- I want so many things that they are driving me kind of crazy...
- Sometimes it's like I can see the future stretched out in front of me - just plain as day.
- I'm trying to talk to you 'bout myself and all you can say is eat them eggs and go to work.
What does the Walter character symbolize in A Raisin in the Sun?
Walter symbolizes the struggles and aspirations of black men during the Civil Rights era. He is a complex character who is torn between his desire for material wealth and his responsibility to his family and community.
What is the significance of Walter's character in A Raisin in the Sun?
Walter's character is significant because he represents the tension between assimilation and cultural identity for African Americans. His struggle to achieve the American Dream reflects the broader struggles of the black community during the mid-20th century.
How does Walter change throughout A Raisin in the Sun?
Throughout the play, Walter undergoes a transformation from a selfish and impulsive man to a more mature and responsible one. He learns to put his family's needs before his own and to value their cultural heritage over material wealth.
In Conclusion
So there you have it! Walter is a complex character who symbolizes the struggles and aspirations of African Americans during the Civil Rights era. His memorable quotes and transformation throughout the play make him an important figure in American literature.