Symbolism In Fences, By August Wilson

Could a fence mean so much more than just a fence? In Fences, by August Wilson, the fence symbolizes something different for Troy, Rose, and Cory. The fence is not only a physical object, but more of an emotional or mental aspect to the characters. Each definition of the fence has a clear impact to the story that influences that specific character and others surrounding them; an impact that changes the life of many.
The fence to Troy symbolizes keeping things out by establishing his territory. Troy has always been known as the alpha dog in the Maxson’s household, no matter what it takes, even if he has to push people away creating a blockade between him and his loved ones. This is clearly apparent with Troy’s son, Cory, throughout the entire play, but more specifically, the scene after Troy and Cory had an aggressive argument. “Tell mama I’ll be back for my things.” (Wilson, 89) Troy responds to Cory’s remake by answering in a unique way, saying “they’ll be on the other side of the fence.”(WIlson, 89) This quote shows that the fence is not only a physical barrier, but also an emotional one too. Troy is situating a line between himself and Cory that’s marking his territory; showing Cory his father is still under full control of his side of the fence.

For Rose, the fence represents a hurdle that keeps her loved ones in.

Rose is an affectionate and strong woman. She is always thinking about her family, always putting them first. Bono puts into words, the relationship Rose has with her son and husband. “Some people build fences to keep people out… And other people build fences to keep people in.”(Wilson, 63) Bono is referring to Rose’s desire to protect the people she loves. The reason why Rose wants the fence so badly is because Rose wants this fence so her family can bond together, not apart. Troy and Cory are getting on each others nerves and Rose, as a mother and wife, doesn’t want her family to end. She wants for them to stay close and not go astray from

her.
The fence to Cory represents a barrier between him and Troy. When Cory enters through the gate, he feels as if he’s weak and powerless because of his father, Troy. When Cory is inside the fence, it is as if he has no say, option, or thought. This is evidently clear when Cory is upset with his father for telling his coach he has to quit football, “Papa done went up to the school and told Coach Zellman I can’t play football no more.”(Wilson, 57) Troy went deliberately behind Cory’s back to tell Coach Zellman that Cory can’t play football because of the pain and suffering the “white men” did to him. When Troy was young and had a chance to play in the Major League Baseball, his skin color was the one thing not letting him play. Troy was much talented than the white men playing on field but because he was African American, his shot was slim to none. Troy believes that the same thing will happen to his son, yet Cory doesn’t believe that this will happen to him which makes Troy seem like a barrier; making Cory feel weak and powerless inside the Maxon’s fence.
The definition of a fence is clearly different to Troy, Rose and Cory. Troy sees the fence as a mark of territory when Cory sees it as a barrier between him and his father. But when Cory’s and Troy's fence symbolizes power and strength, Rose’s represents love and compassion towards her son and husband; keeping them in her fence and letting them grow together. Each of Troy’s, Rose’s, and Cory’s meaning of the fence intertwine and effect the story vitalily. Now, the question is, could a fence mean so much more than just a fence?