The Motif of a Fence in Fences

In August Wilson's play, "August," the motif of a fence is prevalent and holds significant symbolic meaning throughout the story. The fence serves as a physical barrier that represents the divisions and struggles within the African American community during the 1950s in Pittsburgh. This essay will explore the motif of a fence in August and its implications on the characters and their relationships. By examining the various instances in which fences are mentioned in the text, we can gain a deeper understanding of the play's central themes of segregation, identity, and the search for belonging. Ultimately, the motif of a fence in August highlights the complex dynamics of race and the impact of societal boundaries on individual lives.

One of the first instances in which the motif of a fence appears in August is when Troy Maxson, the protagonist, discusses building a fence around his property with his friend Bono. Troy sees the fence as a way to establish ownership and protect his family from the outside world. He states, "You got to take the crookeds with the straights. That's what Papa used to say. He'd say, 'Troy, you ought to get you a fence around there'" (Wilson, 4). Here, the fence represents Troy's desire for stability and security. He believes that by building this physical barrier, he can shield his loved ones from the hardships of the outside world.

However, as the play progresses, the fence takes on a deeper meaning. It becomes a symbol of the walls that Troy has built around himself, preventing him from fully connecting with others. This is evident in his strained relationship with his son, Cory. Troy's strict and oppressive parenting style, influenced by his own experiences growing up in a racially divided society, creates a metaphorical fence between him and Cory. He constantly discourages Cory's dreams of playing college football, insisting that he must focus on practicality instead. This conflict is highlighted when Troy says, "I don't want him to be like me! I want him to move as far away from my life as he can get" (Wilson, 36). The fence serves as a barrier between father and son, representing Troy's fear of Cory surpassing him and breaking free from the limitations that society has imposed on him.

Furthermore, the fence motif is also reflected in the relationship between Troy and his wife, Rose. Rose is often seen tending to her garden, which is separated from the rest of the yard by a white picket fence. This fence symbolizes her own desire for a peaceful and harmonious life. She believes that by cultivating her garden, she can create a sanctuary within the confines of their home. However, as the play unfolds, this sanctuary is shattered when Troy impregnates another woman. This betrayal represents a breach in the fence, disrupting the stability and trust within their marriage. Rose tearfully confronts Troy, stating, "You take and...you build a fence around me and you know I'm the one that's supposed to take care of you" (Wilson, 64). The fence that once represented Rose's hope for a happy family life has now become a symbol of her broken dreams and shattered trust.

The motif of a fence in August serves as a powerful symbol throughout the play, representing various themes such as segregation, identity, and the search for belonging. As we have explored, the fence acts as both a physical and metaphorical barrier, separating characters and highlighting the divisions within the African American community during the 1950s. Troy's desire for a fence represents his longing for stability and protection, but it also reveals his fear of change and his attempts to control the lives of those around him. The fence between Troy and Cory represents the generational divide and the struggle for individual freedom and self-expression. Lastly, the fence in Rose's garden represents her pursuit of a peaceful and harmonious life, which is shattered when her trust is betrayed.

In conclusion, the motif of a fence in August symbolizes the complex dynamics of race and the impact of societal boundaries on individual lives. It demonstrates the struggles faced by African Americans in a racially divided society and the internal conflicts that arise within families. By examining the instances in which fences are mentioned in the text, we gain a deeper understanding of the play's central themes and the characters' motivations. The motif of a fence in August serves as a powerful reminder of the barriers that exist in our society and the constant struggle to break free and find true belonging.