August Wilson’s ‘Fences’: a Reflection on the American Dream

August Wilson’s “Fences,” a profound piece in the canon of American theater, is a poignant exploration of race, family, and the elusive American dream. Published in 1985 and set in the 1950s, the play captures the life of Troy Maxson, a former Negro League baseball player, and his struggles with broken dreams and a world rife with racial discrimination. This essay delves into the themes, characters, and the socio-cultural context of “Fences,” unraveling its significance in American literature.

At the heart of “Fences” is the theme of unfulfilled aspirations and the barriers – both literal and metaphorical – that African Americans faced in the mid-20th century.

Troy Maxson, the protagonist, is a character defined by what he has lost and what he has been denied. His dreams of becoming a professional baseball player were thwarted by racial segregation, leaving him embittered and resentful. This bitterness taints his relationships with his family, particularly with his son, Cory, whose own aspirations of playing football are met with skepticism and disapproval by Troy. Through this strained father-son relationship, Wilson skillfully portrays the generational conflicts and the shifting paradigms of the African American experience.

Another pivotal element of “Fences” is the symbol of the fence that Troy builds around his house. This fence represents various themes in the play: separation, protection, and the boundaries that Troy sets in his life. On one hand, the fence is a physical barrier that separates the Maxson family from the outside world, symbolizing Troy’s desire to protect his family from the racial injustices he has endured. On the other hand, it represents the emotional barriers that Troy erects, alienating himself from his loved ones. The fence thus becomes a powerful metaphor for the characters’ internal and external conflicts.

“Fences” also offers a critical commentary on the American dream – a concept that remains elusive for Troy and his family. Despite their hard work and aspirations, they are continually hindered by systemic racism and socio-economic barriers. Wilson’s portrayal of these struggles provides a nuanced critique of the American dream, questioning its accessibility and validity for African Americans in the 1950s.

Moreover, the play’s exploration of gender roles adds another layer of complexity. Rose, Troy’s wife, is a character who embodies strength and resilience. Her role in the family and her response to Troy’s failings highlight the often-overlooked experiences of African American women. Rose’s character challenges the traditional gender roles and expectations of the time, revealing the unique struggles faced by black women.

In conclusion, August Wilson’s “Fences” is more than a play about an African American family in the 1950s; it is a timeless exploration of the human condition. Through the life of Troy Maxson and his family, Wilson addresses themes of race, dreams, family dynamics, and the realities of the American dream. The play’s exploration of these themes, combined with its rich symbolism and complex characters, makes “Fences” a compelling and essential work in American literature. It continues to resonate with audiences today, offering profound insights into the struggles and resilience of the African American community. “Fences” is not just a story of barriers; it is a narrative of breaking through them, both literally and metaphorically.

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