I Don't Wanna Talk Small Talk...

(A Raisin in the Sun, Hansberry)

The characterization and setting of A Raisin in the Sun offer more information about the tale than the dialogue and plot combined. As the story opens with the well-worn and clean apartment, the intentions and history of the family are revealed. Obviously this is a family of pride and appreciation for for their lifestyle. Even though they wish for more and have dreams, they are grounded in a apartment of memories, shared meals, deep conversation, and dreams of the future. Additionally the characters reveal this pride and spirit, shown in Momma's care for all the needs of the family or Ruth's concern for every member to do as they need. Or the work of the entire family to clean and pack and dance and fight in the apartment; the apartment represents the family: traditional, loved, but too small for the future. The crowded apartment calls for a change. The emotions and stage directions of the characters reflect this crowded aura, though not only the shared beds and tightspaces but also the constant interuption in conversation and bursting-passion moods. As a play, this work is able to fully use the setting and characters.