Summary Of Joe Turner's Come And Gone

A Summary and Analysis of August Wilson's Joe Turner's Come and Gone

August Wilson's Joe Turner's Come and Gone, the third play in his ten-part cycle chronicling the African American experience throughout the 20th century, is a powerful and evocative exploration of identity, freedom, and the lingering effects of slavery. Set in 1911 Pittsburgh, the play unfolds within the boarding house of Seth Holly, a man who provides temporary refuge for Black migrants searching for a sense of belonging and a path towards self-discovery. This summary will delve into the central plot, character analyses, and thematic concerns woven into the intricate tapestry of Wilson's masterpiece.

The Central Plot: Searching for Home and Self

The play revolves around a collection of transient characters who converge at Seth Holly's boarding house, each grappling with their individual pasts and yearning for a better future. The narrative is not driven by a single, linear plotline, but rather by the interwoven stories of these individuals and their interconnected experiences. The central thread, however, involves the search for self-discovery and the reclamation of one's identity in the face of historical trauma.

Herald Loomis, a recently freed man who has spent years searching for his wife, is the play's central figure. His journey is one of spiritual and physical searching. Haunted by the traumatic experience of being forcefully separated from his family and his sense of stolen time, he seeks to reconnect with his past and find a sense of wholeness. His quest forms the backbone of the play, mirroring the broader experience of African Americans struggling to build lives and families in the face of pervasive racism and the legacy of slavery.

The other boarders each contribute to the overall narrative, their individual stories enriching the themes of displacement, longing, and the search for identity. Bynum Walker, a charismatic healer and seer, serves as a spiritual guide for many of the residents, offering insights and facilitating their journeys of self-discovery. His use of herbs and spiritual practices reflects traditional African healing methods and underscores the importance of cultural heritage in the face of oppression.

Jeremy Furber, a young man grappling with his identity and the legacy of his father’s abandonment, seeks self-definition. His journey highlights the generational impact of slavery and the struggle of Black men to find their place in a racially charged society.

Ruth Younger, a young woman struggling to establish her independence, finds herself in conflict with societal expectations. Her resilience and determination in the face of adversity showcase the strength and resourcefulness of women during this era.

Mattie Campbell, an older woman burdened by a troubled past, reveals the pervasive and lasting effects of oppression on individuals and communities. Her complex character adds depth and nuance to the play's exploration of the human condition.

Character Analyses: A Tapestry of Lives

The strength of Joe Turner's Come and Gone lies in the depth and complexity of its characters. Each is intricately drawn, with their unique histories and struggles adding to the rich tapestry of the play.

• Herald Loomis: Herald is a man deeply scarred by the brutality of slavery and the subsequent search for his stolen identity. His journey is one of confronting his past trauma and reclaiming his stolen time. His interactions with Bynum Walker and the other boarders facilitate his healing process. His initial anger and bitterness slowly give way to a tentative hope and a renewed sense of self.

• Bynum Walker: Bynum serves as a spiritual and emotional anchor for the residents. His profound understanding of the human spirit and his ability to help others confront their past make him a central figure in the play's thematic exploration. His character embodies the resilience of African traditions and the enduring power of faith.

• Jeremy Furber: Jeremy's youth and vulnerability offer a stark contrast to the older characters' seasoned experiences. His struggle with self-identity underscores the challenges facing younger generations in the shadow of historical trauma. His eventual reconciliation with his past reflects the potential for healing and growth.

• Ruth Younger: Ruth’s independent spirit and defiance of societal norms portray the strength and agency of Black women in the face of adversity. Her journey underlines the importance of self-determination in an era defined by systemic oppression.

• Mattie Campbell: Mattie’s character is deeply complex, embodying the pain and resilience of those who have endured profound loss. Her narrative demonstrates the generational trauma caused by slavery and the struggles faced by African American women in their pursuit of survival and happiness.

Thematic Concerns: Exploring the Human Condition

Joe Turner's Come and Gone delves into several crucial themes, creating a rich and complex exploration of the African American experience.

1. The Search for Identity and Belonging: The play's central theme is the search for identity in the aftermath of slavery. Each character grapples with their past and seeks to define themselves in the context of their present circumstances. The boarding house itself becomes a symbol of temporary refuge, a space where they can begin to piece together their lives and find a sense of community.

2. The Impact of Slavery and its Legacy: The play powerfully illustrates the lasting impact of slavery on individual lives and communities. The characters' experiences and traumas highlight the psychological and emotional scars inflicted by this brutal system. The play shows how these wounds continue to shape their present lives, affecting their relationships, choices, and overall well-being.

3. The Power of Spiritual and Cultural Resilience: Despite the hardships and traumas they have faced, the characters display remarkable resilience. Bynum Walker's spiritual practices and the shared cultural heritage represented within the boarding house highlight the importance of cultural identity and spiritual strength in overcoming adversity. These elements provide solace and a sense of continuity amidst the chaos and displacement.

4. Community and Shared Experiences: The boarding house itself serves as a microcosm of Black community in early 20th-century America. The characters' interactions and shared experiences create a sense of solidarity and mutual support, demonstrating the power of community in the face of hardship.

5. Forgiveness and Redemption: The play explores the themes of forgiveness and redemption both on a personal and collective level. The characters' journeys involve confronting their pasts and seeking atonement for past actions. The possibility of reconciliation and moving forward is a vital aspect of the play's message.

6. The Search for Freedom: The theme of freedom resonates throughout the play. This is not only about physical liberation from slavery but also about emotional and psychological freedom, and freedom from the constraints of societal expectations and personal trauma.

7. The Cycle of Trauma: Wilson masterfully demonstrates how trauma can be passed down through generations. The characters' experiences illuminate the cyclical nature of trauma, showing how the effects of slavery continue to influence the lives of those who did not directly experience it.

Joe Turner: A Symbolic Figure

The title character, Joe Turner, himself is rarely seen on stage. He operates as a symbolic presence, representing the insidious power of oppression and the systematic theft of time and freedom. His actions – seizing Black men and forcing them into unpaid labor – symbolize the systemic stripping away of dignity and the dehumanizing effects of slavery's legacy. He is the embodiment of the forces that have shaped the characters' lives and continue to exert their influence. He is not merely a historical figure but a metaphorical representation of the relentless forces of oppression that haunt the community.

Symbolic Use of Setting and Objects

The setting, Seth Holly's boarding house, plays a significant role. It's a space of transition and transformation, a temporary haven for those seeking a new beginning. Objects within the house also hold symbolic weight. Bynum's herbs and the various personal belongings of the boarders are imbued with significance, reflecting the characters' histories and their search for self-discovery.

Conclusion: A Lasting Impact

Joe Turner's Come and Gone remains a powerful and poignant exploration of identity, freedom, and the lasting consequences of slavery. Through the interconnected stories of its complex and memorable characters, the play offers a compelling commentary on the human spirit's resilience and the enduring quest for self-discovery. Wilson's mastery of language, character development, and thematic exploration make this play a landmark achievement in American drama, offering a timeless reflection on the intricacies of the African American experience and the universal search for home and belonging. Its enduring popularity stems from its capacity to resonate with audiences on multiple levels, prompting reflection on historical trauma, personal identity, and the enduring power of human connection. It remains a vital piece of American literature and a testament to Wilson's skill as a playwright.