Symbols

Shortly after making her initial appearance, Mama makes it a priority to tend to the “feeble little plant growing doggedly in a small pot on the windowsill” (39). She comments on the state of the plant, saying if the plant does not get more sun than it has been getting, it will not survive.

The potted plant on the windowsill is a symbol of the Younger family. It represents both Mama’s care and her dream for her family. She takes pride in caring for both the plant and her family, caring for both unconditionally and unending despite a less-than-perfect environment for growth. Despite the unfortunate circumstances in which they both must survive, the plant and the family flourish. But not for long. If the plant does not get more sunlight and the Younger family does not get a glimmer of hope soon, the results could be catastrophic. The plant will die and the Younger family will cease to exist as a whole.

The life insurance check is the glimmer of hope that the Younger family needs. It is a chance for a clean slate and a fresh start. But, how will Mama use it? She has expressed a desire to use the check to buy a new house. The current Younger residence emphasizes the centrality of the home. It is the only physical demonstration of the Younger family’s socioeconomic status. The small space filled beyond capacity suggests that the Younger family is of a lower class. The apartment is often dark due to the lack of natural light – there is only one window. The mood in the residence often mirrors the amount of light radiating through the sole natural light source. The dark and gloominess of the apartment is accompanied by the relatively glum aura of the Younger family.