Identify the following literary devices used in A Raisin in the Sun. Write down at least three examples of each device from the play.
1) Metaphor:
- "Life's like a novel with the end ripped out, the edge of a canyon with only one way down, the day before Christmas" (Act 1, Scene 1)
- "That happy discovery, my children. You have to get hold of it and smile when things go wrong; grin when things go right" (Act 2, Scene 3)
- "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" (Act 2, Scene 3)
2) Symbolism:
- The plant: The plant symbolizes hope, dreams, and the possibility of growth. It also represents Mama's care and nurturing spirit. (Acts 1, 2, 3)
- The check: The check symbolizes the family's hopes and dreams for a better life. (Acts 1, 2, 3)
- The house: The house symbolizes the realization of the family's dreams and the fulfilment of their aspirations. (Acts 1, 2, 3)
3) Foreshadowing:
- Ruth's mention of feeling "bad lately" and her comment about Walter's drinking hints at her pregnancy and the strain on their marriage. (Act 1, Scene 1)
- Mama's desire for a house with a yard and a garden foreshadows her eventual decision to use the insurance money to buy a house. (Act 1, Scene 1)
- Walter's conversation with Travis about the liquor store business and his desire for money foreshadows his plans to invest the insurance money in a business opportunity. (Act 2, Scene 1)