Symbols

The Youngers' apartment plays a rather large role when it comes to the book's whole atmosphere and feel. The apartment itself is a small, one window, trapped dungeon for the family who feel as though they cannot escape their lives and poverty, especially Walter. The lack of light in the residence resembles their sense of confinement-a situation in which someone is forced to stay in a place, especially a prison, and not allowed to leave. The small speck of light that does make its appearance in the apartment is a reminder of the family's dreams. Like the family itself, the furniture was originally chosen with pride but now old and worn. It provides a symbol for the Youngers family over time. The "old and worn" feel to the furniture shows the tired and strained conditions of everyday life. Many symbols are provided in this book, in which they explain much of the family. Their characteristics and lives are shown in depth and detail with the apartment, furniture, and light. With this it better explains the main theme of the book; The struggles and hardship of an African American family during the 1950s while they keep a sense of pride, not like many at the time.