Compare and contrast - Assignment Example

Walter and Holden have very different living situations. Walter is a black man living in Chicago. He drives a limousine for a living. In the beginning, Walter, his wife, son, sister, and mother all live in a small apartment (Hansberry 23-24). Money is equated to happiness in Walter’s mind. He believes if he can finally make enough money all his problems would drift away. Money also equals manhood to Walter. He sees his sister’s friends George and Agasai as the future and the past. Agasai is the African root, whereas George is the future rich, assimilated, black man.

Walter knew he needed change, but was unsure how to proceed. Holden, on the other hand, is a white student. He lives in the New York City area. Holden has an older brother, younger sister, and younger brother that died. Holden loves his little sister. He does have roommates, friends, and acquaintances, but cannot really relate to his peers and superiors. During the course of the story, Holden is trying to find himself. He wants to explore his sexuality, personality, and life. Like Walter, Holden wanted change, but was unsure how to proceed.

Walter and Holden had more differences than just their situation. Walter was in his 30’s, whereas Holden was a teenager. Walter is very secure in his sexuality. “Holden is a rebel and all that -- "the most terrific liar you ever saw in your life," "probably the biggest sex maniac you ever saw" -- but he's a softy at heart. He's always pitying people” (Yardley C01).Where Holden understands sexuality norms; he is still uncomfortable with losing his virginity. Walter is married with a son, but Holden is single with not children.

Walter is not as well read as Holden. Holden only likes to read, but the rest of his academics are less than stellar (Salinger 24). Walter works, whereas Holden is a student. These are some of the major differences between Walter and Holden. Despite Walter and Holden’s differences, there are many similarities as well. The similarities are more internal. Both Walter and Holden have dreams. These two characters try to achieve their dreams and goals, but do not want to put forth much of an effort.

Walter and Holden do have definite opinions about their peers. Both men are trying to fit into the world and be respected. Walter’s dreams are about being rich. All of his problems would be gone with money. His marriage would be perfect. Walter’s family would be happy. All of his dreams are initially wrapped up in money. Despite dreaming about being rich, Walter does not want to work hard to achieve his goals. “Walter has many dreams but no plans to make them happen. Walter is obsessed with his dreams.

They consume him to the point where he can't really see straight. He believes that everyone should see his way of thinking, and doesn't consider that it's his dream that may not be entirely clear. He'd rather do a get rich quick scheme. He is passionate and ambitious but incredibly irresponsible and childish. Poverty keeps him down but his inability to live in the real world also keeps him down. He's unable to move forward. He wants a world of luxury, immediately without work. He thinks he works hard enough at his ordinary job as a chauffeur” (Price).

As a result of not wanting to work, Walter cooks up wild schemes. One wild scheme is to own a liquor store (Hansberry 33). Once Walter gives the money for the store, his friends rip him off.