Themes: Barriers
The title of the play, Fences, underlines the overwhelming thematic and symbolic importance of the fence which Troy is trying, and largely failing, to build around his house for the majority of the play. He questions why his wife, Rose, wants to build a fence at all, and his friend Bono acutely observes that while some people build fences to keep people out, Rose is doing it to keep people in. She senses that she is losing her husband and wants to build a fence in order to keep the people she loves within its bounds. Later in the play, Troy uses the fence as a barrier in a different sense: he says that he will put Cory's things on the outside of it, suggesting that Cory is now outside of the love of the family. Troy also uses the barrier as a layer of security between himself and Death: the fence is keeping Death away from Troy.
Other barriers of various kinds are set up between the characters in this play. Rather than turning to his wife when he feels an emotional need, Troy goes to Alberta—significantly, often instead of building the physical barrier that Rose believes will keep her family together. He uses Alberta to widen the divide between himself and Rose. There is also the question of the barriers to entry that Troy believes hampered his own sports career and will subsequently hamper that of his son Cory. An emotionally shuttered man, Troy also sets up barriers between himself and his sons, treating them harshly rather than lovingly because he feels that this will encourage them to become their own men.
Expert Q&A
What are the symbolic meanings of fences and how effective is this symbol?
Fences symbolize barriers in both physical and emotional contexts. In Wilson's play, they represent Troy's attempts to protect himself from death and his inability to connect emotionally due to past traumas and racial barriers. Frost's poem "Mending Wall" critiques the idea that "good fences make good neighbors," suggesting nature and human relationships often transcend artificial barriers. Both works effectively use fences to explore themes of division and connection.
What are some examples of different types of fences in the play Fences?
In "Fences," August Wilson explores various types of metaphorical fences that hinder character development, including inner-city poverty, racism, patriarchy, and personal dreams. These barriers are exemplified by Troy, who isolates himself through authoritarian behavior, and Rose, who sacrifices her dreams for family. Cory, Troy's son, struggles against his father's control until he finally overcomes these metaphorical fences, symbolized by Troy's statement about putting Cory's belongings on the other side of the fence, indicating new opportunities.
How do Lyons and Cory contribute to the development of the fences?
In Fences by August Wilson, Lyons helps build the fence between himself and his father by his refusal to get a job and his tendency to borrow money from Troy. Cory helps build a fence through his disobedience, lack of communication, and temper.
The significance and importance of the title "Fences" in August Wilson's play
The title "Fences" in August Wilson's play symbolizes both physical and emotional barriers. It represents the characters' struggles to protect themselves and their loved ones, as well as the obstacles they face in their relationships and society. The fence built by Troy Maxson serves as a metaphor for his desire to keep his family safe while also highlighting his inability to connect with them emotionally.
The message and symbolism of "Fences" by August Wilson
The message of "Fences" by August Wilson revolves around the struggles of African American families in the 1950s, highlighting themes of racial discrimination, personal dreams, and generational conflict. Symbolically, the fence represents both separation and protection, illustrating how characters attempt to keep their loved ones close while also dealing with the emotional barriers that isolate them.
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