Walter asks Ruth what is wrong with her as a way to express his concern for her well-being. Throughout the play, there are visible tensions within the Younger family, especially between Walter and Ruth. Walter is struggling with his own aspirations and frustrations, and he often feels that his dreams are met with resistance from Ruth.
By asking her about what’s bothering her, Walter is not just looking for a simple answer; he’s trying to understand the emotional landscape of his wife and the family. He senses that Ruth is weary and burdened, possibly due to their financial struggles and the pressures of living in a cramped apartment. It reflects his desire for connection, even if it’s also tinged with his own frustrations and desires.
This interaction highlights the deeper themes of communication and misunderstanding in relationships within the play, showcasing how economic stress impacts emotional connections between family members. The question also signifies Walter’s yearning for support and acknowledgment in his own struggles, indicating that he recognizes a change in Ruth’s demeanor and seeks to address it, albeit imperfectly.