August Wilson's Fences

by Ladrica Menson-Furr

Fences represents the decade of the 1950s, and, when it premiered in 1985, it won the Pulitzer Prize. Set during the beginnings of the civil rights movement, it also concerns generational change and renewal, ending with a celebration of the life of its protagonist, even though it takes place at his funeral. Critics and scholars have lauded August Wilson's work for its universality and its ability, especially in Fences , to transcend racial barriers and this play helped to earn him the titles of "America's greatest playwright" and "the African American Shakespeare."

128 pages, Paperback

First published October 8, 2008

Reviews

[Alessandra Mae · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed how Wilson explored the generational boundary of how one person from their experiences can think they are doing a good job but from another person in a different generation they could be doing horribly. Additionally I enjoyed Wilson’s exploration into the life of a black family in the 1950s, and how sometimes the best thing you can do for a relationship and for yourself is to just let go and to just stop trying.

[Kjrsails · Rating 5 out of 5]

August Wilson is one of the best playwrights that America has produced. His knowledge of humanity is every bit as great as Eugene O'Neil and Tennessee Williams.

[Arlo · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read the one introduced by Lloyd Richards but I can't find it on Goodreads.
this play had a lot to say and it said them. This is some good stuff right here my dudes.

[Ai · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would have liked more analysis, but considering this is a theatre guide and the bulk of it is dedicated to workshopping the play, the analysis that was present was spot-on. I've certainly missed reading these types of books since finishing uni. Must remember to add a few to the reading list every now and again.

[alice starnes · Rating 3 out of 5]

and right there the world suddenly got big. and it was a long time before i could cut it down to where i could handle it.