fences，Fencing In Drama Unconventional Family Dynamics in Fences

　　"Fences" is a powerful theatrical work that explores the complex dynamics of an African American family in the 1950s. August Wilson, the Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright, creates a poignant and unflinching portrait of a family struggling to find their place in a rapidly changing world. At the heart of the play is the central theme of fences, both physical and metaphorical, that shape the lives of the characters and drive the plot. Through this potent symbol, Wilson illuminates the unconventional family dynamics that are both a strength and a weakness of the Maxson family.

The Physical Fences

　　The first kind of fences that are introduced in the play are the physical fences that surround the Maxson family's house. The patriarch of the family, Troy Maxson, is a former baseball player who was denied the opportunity to play professionally due to racial discrimination. He now works as a garbage collector and struggles to provide for his family. Troy's frustration and bitterness at the injustices of his past and present are reflected in his desire to build a fence around his property to keep the world out and to impose order on his life.

　　The fence is both a symbol of protection and a barrier that separates the Maxsons from their neighbors. Troy's insistence on building the fence creates conflict with his wife, Rose, who believes that a fence is unnecessary and that it will only serve to isolate them from their community. The fence becomes a physical manifestation of the tensions between Troy and Rose and serves as a reminder of the struggles that African Americans faced in the 1950s.

　　The physical fence also reflects the larger societal structures that limit the opportunities for African Americans. Just as the fence prevents the Maxsons from interacting with their neighbors, racial segregation and discrimination restricted the social and economic mobility of African Americans during that time. Despite the challenges, the Maxsons find strength and solidarity within their own family unit and learn to support each other through the adversity they face.

The Metaphorical Fences

　　In addition to the physical fence, the play also explores the metaphorical fences that constrain the characters and create tension within the family. Troy's relationships with his sons, for example, are defined by the emotional fences that he has built around himself. His own difficult childhood and his experiences with racism have left him unable to express his love and affection for his sons in a meaningful way.

　　Similarly, his affair with another woman is a reflection of the emotional fences that exist between Troy and Rose. Troy's infidelity and betrayal of Rose creates a rift in the family, and the consequences of his actions reverberate throughout the play.

　　The fences in the play are not just barriers that separate people from each other, but also structures that hold them together. As the play unfolds, the characters learn to navigate and transcend their limitations and grow stronger as a family.

Fencing in Drama

　　"Fences" is an excellent example of the power of drama to explore complex family dynamics and social issues. August Wilson's play resonates with audiences because it captures the struggles and aspirations of people from all backgrounds. The fences that exist in the play are relevant to anyone who has ever felt constrained by societal expectations or personal limitations.

　　Ultimately, the play celebrates the strength and resilience of the human spirit, as the Maxsons overcome their obstacles and find hope for a better future. Through their struggles, they demonstrate that even in the face of adversity, there is always a way to break through the fences and find a path to a brighter tomorrow.