Generation Gap

A Raisin in the Sun
Lorraine Hansberry

This play displays problems of the generation gap between Mama's generation and Walter's generation. A main difference between the two generations is debate over the importance of money and its role in one's dreams. Near the beginning of the play, Walter, Beneatha, and even Travis anxiously await the arrival of the insurance check. The sole focus of these characters was on receiving the money, so they could then pursue their dreams. "Can't you give people a Christian greeting before you start asking about money?"(Hansberry, 70). Mama said this to Walter after he entered and first asked if the money had arrived. This quote shows the difference between Mama and her children's generation. Mama placed more importance on her family and their happiness than she placed on money. Her dreams were to make her children happy. Walter differs from Mama in that he placed more importance on money.  He still had dreams, but his dreams were to gain wealth. In order to gain wealth, Walter pursued foolish business transactions which required money to spark growth. Whereas Walter's generation looked for quick easy ways to gain money, Mama's generation worked long hard hours to make a living.