Comparing Troy and Bono in Fences

August Wilson’s play, Fences, explores the lives of two friends, Troy Maxson and Jim Bono, as they navigate the complexities of race, family, and dreams in 1950s America. While both characters share a deep friendship, they also differ in their outlooks on life, which ultimately shapes their actions and relationships. This essay aims to compare and contrast Troy and Bono, highlighting their contrasting perspectives on responsibility, dreams, and the impact of the past. Through a careful analysis of their interactions and motivations, it becomes clear that although these two men have a shared history, they approach life and its challenges from vastly different angles.

Responsibility: Troy's Individualism vs Bono's Loyalty

One of the major differences between Troy and Bono lies in their attitudes towards responsibility. Troy is a fiercely independent individual who values personal achievement and autonomy. He believes that one must take control of their own destiny and make their own way in the world. In contrast, Bono is a loyal friend who believes in the importance of community and collective responsibility.

Troy's individualism is evident in his refusal to let anyone stand in the way of his dreams. He is determined to build a fence around his house, symbolizing his desire for privacy and control over his own space. Bono, on the other hand, encourages Troy to prioritize his family's needs over his personal desires. He recognizes the importance of supporting and providing for loved ones, even at the expense of individual aspirations.

Furthermore, Troy's individualistic mindset is reflected in his treatment of Rose, his wife. He cheats on her with Alberta, which ultimately leads to the birth of his illegitimate child. Troy justifies his actions by claiming that he is merely pursuing his own happiness. In contrast, Bono condemns Troy's infidelity, recognizing the impact it has on Rose and the family as a whole. He believes in the importance of fidelity and loyalty, even in the face of personal desires.

Dreams: Troy's Pragmatism vs Bono's Idealism

Troy and Bono also differ in their approaches to dreams and aspirations. Troy is a pragmatic individual who believes in the power of hard work and practicality. He is skeptical of lofty dreams and places more value on tangible achievements. Bono, however, is an idealist who believes in the power of dreams and the possibility of a better future.

Troy's pragmatism is evident in his advice to his son, Cory. He discourages Cory from pursuing a career in football, believing that dreams alone do not guarantee success. He insists that Cory must focus on finding a stable job and providing for his family. Bono, however, encourages Cory to follow his dreams and believes that success can be achieved through perseverance and dedication.

Moreover, Troy's pragmatism is also reflected in his own aspirations. He once had dreams of becoming a professional baseball player, but his career was cut short due to racial barriers. Instead of dwelling on what could have been, Troy focuses on providing for his family and ensuring their stability. Bono, on the other hand, holds onto his dreams and continues to see the potential for a better future.

The Impact of the Past: Troy's Resentment vs Bono's Acceptance

Lastly, Troy and Bono have contrasting attitudes towards the impact of the past on their lives. Troy is burdened by his past experiences, particularly his time in prison. He carries a deep resentment towards the injustices he faced, which shapes his interactions with others. Bono, however, accepts the past as an inevitable part of life and does not let it define his present.

Troy's resentment is evident in his strained relationship with his son, Lyons. He resents Lyons for not being there for him during his time in prison and sees him as a reminder of his own failures. Bono, on the other hand, encourages Troy to forgive and move on from the past, recognizing that holding onto resentment only hinders personal growth.

Furthermore, Troy's resentment also extends to his relationship with his brother, Gabriel, who suffered a head injury during the war. Troy resents Gabriel's disability and the impact it has on his own life. Bono, however, accepts Gabriel as he is and sees the value in his unique perspective. He encourages Troy to embrace his brother's presence rather than resenting it.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the characters of Troy and Bono in August Wilson's Fences embody contrasting perspectives on responsibility, dreams, and the impact of the past. Troy's individualism and pragmatism stand in stark contrast to Bono's loyalty and idealism. While both characters share a deep friendship, their differing outlooks on life shape their actions and relationships. Troy's resentment and focus on personal achievement clash with Bono's acceptance and emphasis on collective responsibility. Through the lens of Troy and Bono's interactions and motivations, Fences explores the complexities of human relationships and the diverse ways in which individuals approach life's challenges.

Ultimately, Wilson's portrayal of these characters serves as a reminder that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to navigating the complexities of life. By examining the contrasting perspectives of Troy and Bono, we gain a deeper understanding of the nuances of human behavior and the impact of individual choices on relationships and personal fulfillment. Fences encourages us to reflect on our own beliefs and attitudes, inviting us to consider the ways in which our perspectives shape our actions and relationships. In doing so, we are reminded of the importance of empathy, understanding, and embracing the diversity of experiences that make up the human condition.

Bibliography

Wilson, August. Fences. Plume, 1986.