Fences

The ending of Fences reveals that Troy, the strict and often flawed father, dies of a heart attack. This event shifts the story forward six years, showing the impact of his life on his family. During this time, Cory has joined the Marines and is distant from his family due to his bitterness toward Troy. At the family gathering for Troy’s funeral, Cory chooses not to attend, reflecting the deep rift and unresolved feelings left by their troubled relationship. Meanwhile, Raynell, Troy’s daughter with Alberta, sings “A Dog Named Blue,” symbolizing loyalty and the desire for approval—mirroring Troy’s complex relationships. The family gathers in Troy’s backyard, listening to Uncle Gabriel play his trumpet, which symbolizes the gates of heaven opening, offering a sense of spiritual release or hope.

Throughout the story, the titular fence is a powerful symbol: for Troy, it reflects his desire to keep his family confined and protected, rooted in his fears of change and failure. For Rose, it signifies her wish to keep her family united and safe. For Cory, the fence represents his feeling of entrapment—trapped by his father’s strict rules and limited prospects. The phrase “fences” encapsulates the barriers each character faces—whether emotional, physical, or societal—and reveals how their environment influences their lives.

Ultimately, the film’s ending underscores the themes of responsibility, regret, and the inescapable consequences of choices made. Troy’s life, shaped by his contradictions—his dreams, failures, and sense of duty—has left lasting scars on his family, but the gathering and music suggest a passing into the next realm, leaving behind a complex legacy. The ending invites viewers to reflect on how environments and decisions forge identity and how, despite struggles and mistakes, people carry their stories forward.

Last Updated: June 25, 2025 at 08:58