Dreams/A Dream Deferred (Langston Hughes) Vocabulary

Front

What does the phrase 'raisin in the sun' symbolize?

Back

It symbolizes something that has dried up and shriveled, representing lost potential or dreams that have not been realized.

Front

What does the term 'fester' mean?

Back

To putrefy or rot; it refers to something that becomes infected or decayed.

Front

What does it mean to 'explode'?

Back

To burst suddenly and violently with a loud noise; it can refer to a physical explosion or metaphorically to a sudden outburst.

Front

What does 'rotting' refer to in the context of sores?

Back

It refers to sores that fester and run, indicating decay and infection.

Front

What can happen if a dream explodes?

Back

It can be dangerous and devastating, leading to loss and fear.

Front

What does 'defer' mean in relation to dreams?

Back

To postpone or delay; it refers to putting off dreams or aspirations.

Front

What is the meaning of 'barren'?

Back

Lacking in growth or productivity; it can refer to land that cannot produce crops or to unfulfilled potential.

Front

How can dreams be described when they are unfulfilled?

Back

They can be described as deferred, meaning they are postponed or delayed.

Front

What is a metaphor?

Back

A figure of speech that describes an object or action in a way that isn’t literally true, often used to illustrate a point.

Front

What does it mean to have a 'dream deferred'?

Back

It refers to a dream that has been postponed or delayed, often leading to feelings of frustration or hopelessness.