Why do mama and Ruth argue?

Mama and Ruth argue primarily due to their differing perspectives on life and their aspirations for the family's future. Mama is focused on traditional values and dreams of providing stability through homeownership, while Ruth often feels overwhelmed by the pressures of their current living situation and is more pragmatic about their circumstances. Their conflicts reflect deeper tensions about hope, sacrifice, and the challenges of their socioeconomic status. Ultimately, these arguments reveal their struggles to communicate and support one another amid their hardships.