Why Did Walter Ask Ruth What Was Wrong With Her

Why Did Walter Ask Ruth What Was Wrong With Her? Exploring a Pivotal Scene in "A Raisin in the Sun"

Lorraine Hansberry's "A Raisin in the Sun" is a masterpiece of American drama, exploring themes of race, family, and the American Dream. One seemingly small moment, however, holds significant weight and fuels much interpretation: Walter Lee Younger's question to his wife, Ruth, "What's wrong with you?" This seemingly simple query acts as a catalyst, unveiling a deep chasm between the couple and highlighting the pressures of their circumstances. This article will delve deep into the context of this question, exploring the underlying tensions, the emotional state of both characters, and the broader implications within the play's narrative.

The Crushing Weight of Expectation and Financial Strain

Before understanding Walter's question, we must establish the oppressive environment surrounding the Youngers. They are a Black family living in a cramped apartment in 1950s Chicago. The family's meager existence is exacerbated by the imminent arrival of a substantial insurance check – Mama's inheritance. This money represents hope, a chance for a better life, but it also becomes a source of immense pressure and conflict. Walter, in particular, feels the weight of expectation.

Walter's Dreams and Disappointments

Walter harbors ambitious dreams of opening a liquor store, a venture he sees as his ticket to financial independence and respect. He feels stifled by his current job as a chauffeur, a profession that offers little recognition or opportunity for advancement. This dream, however, is not simply about financial success; it's also about proving himself as a provider and a man in the eyes of his family and society. His frustration stems from a deep-seated sense of powerlessness and marginalization, a feeling amplified by the systemic racism prevalent in his society.

Ruth's Silent Suffering and Unspoken Burden

Ruth, on the other hand, represents the pragmatism and resilience of the family. She silently endures the hardships of their daily life, managing the household and supporting Walter, even when his dreams seem unrealistic and his behavior is erratic. She bears the brunt of their financial struggles, working tirelessly to make ends meet. Her quiet strength masks a deep well of exhaustion and worry, a burden that Walter often fails to recognize or acknowledge.

The Context of Walter's Question: A Breakdown in Communication

Walter's question, "What's wrong with you?" appears after a series of tense exchanges between him and Ruth. The scene is rife with unspoken resentments and simmering frustrations. Ruth's exhaustion and growing despair, stemming from her pregnancy and the constant stress of their situation, have reached a breaking point.

Ruth's Fatigue and the Weight of Responsibility

Ruth's fatigue isn't just physical; it's emotional and psychological. She is burdened by the responsibility of maintaining their household, raising their son, and coping with Walter's relentless pursuit of his liquor store dream, a pursuit that she fears will lead to their ruin. Her weariness is a manifestation of the systemic pressures placed upon her as a Black woman in a patriarchal society, a pressure further intensified by her economic and social circumstances.

Walter's Misunderstanding and Lack of Empathy

Walter, blinded by his own aspirations, fails to fully comprehend the depth of Ruth's weariness and despair. He sees her fatigue as a personal failing, a weakness that stands in the way of his own ambitions. He's unable to empathize with her struggles, instead projecting his anxieties and frustrations onto her. This misinterpretation leads to his accusatory question, highlighting a critical breakdown in communication and understanding between the couple.

Beyond the Words: Unveiling Deeper Meaning

The seemingly simple question, "What's wrong with you?", carries layers of meaning beyond its literal interpretation. It reflects:

Walter's Frustration and Self-Doubt

Walter's question isn't solely an attack on Ruth; it is also a reflection of his own deep-seated insecurities and self-doubt. He is grappling with his failure to achieve his aspirations, experiencing a sense of stagnation and inadequacy. His frustration and anxieties find an outlet in his projection of blame onto Ruth, a defense mechanism against his own vulnerabilities.

The Erosion of Their Relationship

The question marks a significant point in the erosion of Walter and Ruth's relationship. It highlights the lack of genuine communication and empathy between them, suggesting a growing emotional distance fueled by financial hardship and divergent dreams. The question symbolizes the strain placed upon their marriage by the relentless pressures of their reality.

The Impact of Systemic Racism

The context of the play reveals the systemic racism contributing to the couple's struggles. The limited opportunities available to Black people in 1950s America directly impact their financial stability and emotional well-being. Walter's question, therefore, can be interpreted as a manifestation of the frustrations and anxieties arising from this systemic oppression.

The Ripple Effect: Consequences of Walter's Question

Walter's question is not a standalone moment; it has profound consequences for the unfolding narrative. It intensifies the existing tensions within the Younger family, exacerbating the already fragile dynamic between Walter and Ruth. It underscores their inability to effectively communicate their needs and vulnerabilities, highlighting a fundamental flaw in their relationship.

The Unraveling of Walter's Dream

The subsequent events further demonstrate the consequences of Walter's actions and his inability to understand Ruth's perspective. His reckless investment of the insurance money and his subsequent near-desperation contribute to a significant crisis, ultimately forcing him to confront his mistakes and the shortcomings of his approach.

A Catalyst for Change

However, paradoxically, Walter's question also acts as a catalyst for change. It compels him to confront his flaws and the impact of his actions on his family. The ensuing events lead to a period of self-reflection and growth, ultimately transforming him into a more empathetic and responsible man.

Conclusion: A Multifaceted Moment

Walter's seemingly simple question, "What's wrong with you?", is far from simple. It is a multifaceted moment encapsulating the complex interplay of personal struggles, financial pressures, racial inequalities, and the deep fractures within a family striving for the American Dream. It is a testament to Hansberry's masterful ability to weave seemingly small moments into profound explorations of the human condition. The question serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of communication, empathy, and understanding in navigating life's challenges, particularly within the context of systemic oppression and the complexities of human relationships. It’s a pivotal moment that continues to resonate with audiences decades later, forcing us to confront the enduring relevance of Hansberry's poignant portrayal of family, race, and the relentless pursuit of hope in the face of adversity.