Fences Inspiration

 

    The picture above is an art piece of a tree with an apple chained to the trunk, which demonstrates the relationship between a father and son in the 1950s using the metaphor: “The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree” as inspiration. As the chain can be used as an image of protection or restraint just like a relationship with one’s father, I believe this accurately depicts these relationships, as when I was researching this topic I came across plenty of research papers and studies that showed there is a direct correlation between how a father raises a son, and the child’s mental state and future life. I created this from being inspired after reading the incredible play: Fences.

    In the artifact above this relationship is demonstrated by a chain connecting the tree(father) and apple(son), which can be viewed in different ways depending on the perspective one chooses to view it with. A chain is a sequence of iron linked together forming a strong and flexible tool for connection, which can be used either for protection or restraint. This is just like how a father’s actions raising a son can be supportive and helpful, or draining and harmful, setting them up for success or failure respectively. A chain is also strong when it is kept well taken care of, but if it is disregarded and left to weather and erode with nobody taking care of it, it can easily be worn down and destroyed. Just like a chain, a father’s feelings he holds towards his son and expresses can be represented, either keeping the chain clean and strong with love, or eroding the chain leaving both sides alone with destroyed bits and pieces if hatred triumphs. I felt this was the most accurate and symbolic image I could choose for the father son dynamic, and I also felt it was a great way to demonstrate how a father affects their son in a straightforward way.