The loss of innocence through age is inescapable. With time, young idealism is violently met with the reality of systemic injustice and to prevent such a reunion is impossible. In A Raisin in the Sun, Mama is described as "being a woman who had adjusted to many things in life," weathered by and tired from laborious years of societal struggles. In contrast, Travis represents the vitality and adventurism of the youth and the preservation of innocence through censorship by older generations.
In an attempt to cover the hardships of daily life, Mama tends to Travis's chores, claiming "he's just a little boy" and that he "ain't supposed to know 'bout housekeeping" (40). And without explanation, Mama commands Travis to "hush up" (59) when he attempts to illustrate his childlike curiosity with the rogue rat. Mama's actions are representative of quiet conformation to societal ideals and institutional abandonment of pragmatic guidance and true education about the reality of struggles. Much like the "plant that ain't never had enough sunshine" (52), Travis doesn't receive the proper educational nutrition that is necessary to sprout understanding members of society. What is left of Travis's tenacious curiosity is a vague understanding that some things are right and some things are wrong.
The solution, I would argue, is like that of any other conflict: effective conversation between dissenting members. On a broader scale, this requires dialogue between people of, but not limited to, different generations, races, religions, and sexes. Bridging systemic chasms requires the full effort of people on both sides of the issue before it becomes too societally ingrained.
The plant hasn't always been withered, but is it too late now?
Such high diction in your blog! To answer your question at the end, as Mama took the plant with her to the new house, I think it's a sign that there is still a chance for improvement for the whole family and her aims to create a garden possibly represents a chance for a rebirth to solve conflicts. Hopefully the Younger family has a happy ending. Great post Michael!
ReplyDeleteThat was a really tight writing. I agree with you that Mama is being very protective of Travis and he is being spoiled, but I think some censorship is necessary for children like Travis. Although he will have to face the truth one day, what separates a child from adults is his innocence. He doesn't have to suffer all of the harshness of life already; it can wait until he is stronger to take it in.
ReplyDeletelol the face palm at the end XD. I do agree with Yunsoo about censorship. While people have to face the reality of life to learn and grow, somethings are best learned at a specific stage in life. Nice post!
ReplyDeleteI like that you put a lot of information in a relatively small post! I think that even though conversation is a good idea, that things would come naturally anyways. For me, for example, I learned most things on my own through learning or self experience.
ReplyDeleteI like the way your very effectively analyzed the quote and provided your own thinking! good job!
ReplyDeleteWow this was really deep! I really liked the way you compared Mama and Travis. I also like the last part about both sides having to communicate. Nice post.
ReplyDeleteYour writing style and tone are clear and deeply reflects your strong opinions and views on matters. This, in combination with strong textual evidence, makes your arguments extremely convincing. Well done!
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