Piano Lesson, analytical paragraph

n The Piano Lesson, August Wilson uses a variety of aggressive and neutral characters to create a contrast in personalities to further deepen the character and plot understanding for the reader. The most prominent, neutral character is Doaker. Throughout the story he can be found attempting to keep peace between his niece and nephew, Boy Willie and Berniece. The majority of their bickering is surrounding the piano that holds much sentimental value to Berniece (who wishes to keep the piano) and cash value to Boy Willie (who wishes to sell it). At one point in the story, as Boy Willie attempts to remove the piano from Bernieces’ and Doaker’s living room, Doaker says, “Boy Willie ain’t done nothing for me to put him out of the house. I told you if you can’t get along just go on and don’t have nothing to do with each other.” (87) In this situation, Doaker is trying to maintain a neutral and powerful position within the home that could turn chaotic without his authority.