Literary Symbolism in Fences

August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play, Fences, is a masterful work of literary art that uses symbolism to convey deeper themes and meaning. Throughout the play, Wilson employs various symbols to represent different aspects of the characters’ lives and struggles. These symbols not only enhance the overall narrative but also provide insight into the complexities of the human experience.

The Fence

One of the central symbols in Fences is the fence that Troy Maxson, the protagonist, is building around his house. The fence serves as a physical barrier that separates Troy’s home from the outside world. It also represents Troy’s desire to protect his family and keep them safe from harm. However, the fence can also be seen as a metaphor for the emotional barriers that Troy has built up over the years.

Throughout the play, Troy’s relationship with his son, Cory, is strained, and their interactions are often characterized by tension and conflict. The fence can be interpreted as a symbol of the barriers that exist between Troy and Cory, preventing them from truly understanding each other. In this way, the fence represents the emotional distance that exists within the Maxson family.

The Baseball Bat

Another significant symbol in Fences is the baseball bat that Troy uses to represent his authority and power within the family. Troy’s job as a garbage collector is physically demanding and often degrading, and the baseball bat serves as a symbol of the strength and masculinity that Troy feels he has lost in his daily life.

When Troy refuses to let Cory play football because he doesn’t want him to suffer the same disappointments that he did, he uses the baseball bat to assert his dominance. The bat becomes a symbol of Troy’s control over his family and his determination to protect them from the harsh realities of the world.

The Tree

In the final scene of the play, Troy’s wife, Rose, plants a tree in the yard as a memorial to Troy. The tree symbolizes growth, renewal, and the possibility of a brighter future. It also represents the enduring strength of the Maxson family, despite the challenges they have faced.

Throughout the play, the characters grapple with the legacy of the past and the impact it has had on their lives. The tree serves as a symbol of hope and resilience, reminding the characters that they have the power to overcome adversity and build a better future for themselves and their loved ones.

Conclusion

The use of symbolism in Fences adds depth and complexity to the play, allowing the audience to explore the themes of family, legacy, and the struggle for personal and emotional fulfillment. The fence, the baseball bat, and the tree are just a few examples of the powerful symbols that August Wilson employs to convey the inner lives of his characters and the broader social and cultural context in which they exist.

By delving into the layers of meaning within these symbols, audiences can gain a deeper understanding of the characters’ motivations, desires, and struggles. Through the use of symbolism, Wilson invites us to reflect on our own lives and relationships, prompting us to consider the barriers we have built and the ways in which we can overcome them to create a more fulfilling and meaningful existence.