Fences, By August Wilson

Fences, written by August Wilson, takes place in the 1950’s where racism and social barriers were prominent and highlighted the systematic injustices faced by African Americans during that era. Troy Maxon, the protagonist, took up garbage collecting in Pittsburgh after his short-lived baseball career ended. Troy’s bitterness and resentment towards his unfulfilled dreams of playing professional baseball serve as a central part of the play, reflecting the harsh realities of racial discrimination and the limited opportunities offered. The American Dream is merely an illusion and distraction, hindering individuals from accepting the reality of their circumstances.

Troy's dream of playing baseball is a symbol of hope and escape from the harsh realities of his life, but ultimately serves as a reminder of the barriers he faces due to

Cory is recruited for a football team. When Cory goes to Troy in hopes his dad will sign the permission papers to play, Troy responds, "The white man ain't gonna let you get nowhere with that football anyway" (Wilson 35). Despite Cory’s talent and dedication, Troy views Cory's dreams as futile pursuits destined to be crushed. Troy’s refusal to support Cory’s aspirations of playing football in college is rooted in his past experience playing baseball. Due to this, Troy has become bitter and resentful. In Matthew Roudane’s essay, he mentions how “Troy has suffered profoundly from the white world that has fenced him in athletically” (139). Cory's talent and passion for football serve as a reminder to Troy of the opportunities he never had in his own athletic career. This comparison fuels Troy's fear of Cory experiencing the same disappointments and failures he faced, further complicating their relationship. Ultimately, Troy’s own struggles with racial discrimination have shaped his beliefs about the limitations of the American