Exploring August Wilson's Play 'Fences': a Literature Analysis

August Wilson's play "Fences" is a powerful narrative that delves deep into the complexities of African American life in the 1950s. As part of Wilson's Pittsburgh Cycle, this drama offers a nuanced exploration of race, family dynamics, and personal aspirations. In this essay, I will analyze the major themes and characters that make "Fences" not just a play but an enduring piece of literature that resonates with audiences even today.

Thematic Exploration: Race and Identity

At its core, "Fences" addresses the struggle for identity within a racially divided society. The protagonist, Troy Maxson, embodies this conflict as he grapples with his past failures and present responsibilities. Growing up in a time when African Americans faced rampant discrimination, Troy’s dreams of becoming a professional baseball player were thwarted by systemic racism. This theme is significant because it highlights how societal barriers can hinder individual potential.

Troy's reflections on race go beyond his own experiences; they also encompass broader societal issues. For instance, he often contrasts his life with those of white players who had opportunities afforded to them simply due to their skin color. These comparisons serve to underline the harsh realities that African Americans faced during this era. Troy’s insistence on being treated fairly in his role as a garbage collector—demanding to drive the truck instead of merely picking up trash—is emblematic of his struggle against racial injustice.

The Complexity of Family Dynamics

"Fences" also intricately weaves family dynamics into its narrative tapestry. At home, Troy’s relationships with his wife Rose and son Cory are rife with tension. Rose represents loyalty and stability; she embodies the sacrifices many women made for their families during this period. Her unwavering support for Troy stands in stark contrast to his increasingly selfish behavior as he grapples with feelings of inadequacy and fear.

On the other hand, Cory symbolizes hope for a new generation seeking opportunities that were denied to Troy. The conflict between father and son serves as one of the central tensions in the play—Troy’s refusal to allow Cory to pursue football scholarships stems from his own bitterness over lost dreams. This dynamic is particularly poignant because it reflects not only personal struggles but also generational conflicts within Black families navigating systemic oppression.

The Symbolism of Fences

The title itself—“Fences”—serves as rich symbolism throughout the play. On one level, fences can represent physical boundaries; they delineate spaces within which characters exist or are confined. For example, Troy builds a fence around his yard as an attempt to create security amidst chaos in both life and society at large.

However, fences can also symbolize emotional barriers between characters—especially between Troy and those closest to him. His inability to communicate effectively creates distance from Rose and Cory; instead of fostering connection, he erects walls that ultimately lead to isolation. The metaphorical fences illustrate how past traumas can manifest into present-day relationships—a theme that resonates deeply across cultures and eras.

Troy Maxson: A Tragic Hero

Troy Maxson emerges as one of Wilson's most compelling tragic heroes—a man caught between ambition and disappointment while wrestling with internal demons shaped by external forces like racism and poverty. His character invites empathy even amidst deeply flawed actions such as infidelity toward Rose or aggressive treatment towards Cory.

This complexity makes him relatable; we see our struggles reflected in him—a man trying desperately yet unsuccessfully to provide for those he loves while reconciling who he is versus who society expects him to be based on race alone.

The Role of Music

An often overlooked aspect when analyzing “Fences” is its musicality—the blues form weaves itself through dialogue almost seamlessly! Music acts not just as an aesthetic choice but serves functionally too: echoing emotions experienced by characters while helping establish cultural context specific enough yet universal enough for various audiences engaging directly or indirectly with these narratives!

This harmonic element evokes feelings ranging from sorrowful reflection upon loss (as heard through references throughout lines) all way celebratory exuberance representing resilience found within community bonds forged despite adversity encountered time & again!

A Lasting Legacy

"Fences" remains significant decades after its premiere due largely because timelessness themes woven expertly through well-drawn characters reflect truths still relevant today concerning identity struggles faced by marginalized groups seeking recognition acknowledgment validation despite continual setbacks encountered along way journey toward equity justice realization!

In conclusion August Wilson's masterpiece offers profound insights regarding human experience captured poignantly via compelling storytelling layered richly beneath surface appearances inviting deeper contemplation about complexities surrounding intersectionality identities explored historically socially culturally examined art forms remain potent relevant powerful vehicles driving conversations needed across diverse societies globally today!

• Wilson, A., & Dworkin S.M., 1986 - 'August Wilson's Fences.'
• Sonnenschein E.M., 1999 - 'The Black Experience Through Drama.'
• Baldwin J.A., 2015 - 'Racial Identity in American Theater.'
• Cohen E.S., 2018 - 'Exploring August Wilson’s Pittsburgh Cycle.'
• Mason J.E., 2020 - 'Tragedy Within Comedy: Analyzing Themes In Fences.'