Like you? I go out of here every morning… bust my…
““Like you? I go out of here every morning… bust my butt…putting up with them crackers everyday…cause I like you? You about the biggest fool I ever saw. It’s my JOB. It’s my RESPONSIBILITY! You understand that? A man got to take care of his family. You live in my house… sleep on my bed clothes…fill you belly up with my food… cause you my son. You my flesh and blood. Not ‘cause I like you! Cause it’s my duty to take care of you. I OWE a responsibility to you! Let’s get this straight right here… before it go along any further… I ain’t got to like you. Mr. Rand don’t five me money come payday cause he likes me. He gives me cause he OWE me. I done give you everything I had to give you. I gave you your life! Me and your mama worked that out between us. And liking your black ass wasn’t part of the bargain. Don’t try and go through life worrying about if somebody like you or not. You best be making sure they doing right by you. You understand what I’m saying, boy?” - August Wilson, Fences, 1986.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A father asserts his duty to provide and protect his son, emphasizing responsibility over affection, and the harsh realities of survival.
In simple terms: Duty and responsibility outweigh personal liking.
Key Takeaway
Accept responsibility even without affection.
Themes
family
responsibility
survival
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
dramatic
inspirational
When to use this quote
- parenting
- financial support
- community mentorship
Key Concepts
masculinity
social duty
parental love
Questions to Reflect On
- What responsibilities do you fulfill without love?
- How can duty coexist with genuine affection?
A Different Perspective
Emphasizing duty may neglect emotional needs.