In the pilot episode of FX’s critically acclaimed series Snowfall, Franklin Saint’s father, Alton Saint, leaves his family abruptly after a heated argument with Franklin’s mother, Cissy. His departure marks a pivotal moment, setting in motion a chain of events that shapes Franklin’s trajectory and the future of his family.
Alton Saint’s Departure: A Catalyst for Change
Alton Saint’s role in the early stages of Snowfall is subtle yet incredibly significant. He represents a generation caught between the allure of upward mobility and the constraints of racial and economic disparity in 1980s Los Angeles. His ideological clashes with Franklin, centered around the pursuit of wealth and the acceptability of questionable means to achieve it, ultimately lead to his departure.
Alton vehemently opposes Franklin’s initial involvement in drug dealing, viewing it as a betrayal of their family’s values and a dangerous path leading to societal decay. He sees Franklin’s actions as a direct contradiction to the hard work and sacrifice Alton has made to provide a better life for his family. This disagreement culminates in a particularly explosive argument, prompting Alton to pack his bags and leave, stating his inability to support Franklin’s choices. This act of self-preservation, fueled by moral conviction and a deep-seated fear for his son’s future, becomes a crucial turning point for Franklin, forcing him to navigate the treacherous world of drug trafficking without his father’s guidance and moral compass.
Alton’s absence is not merely physical; it creates a void within the family dynamic, placing increased pressure on Cissy and accelerating Franklin’s independence. This departure sets the stage for the series’ core themes of ambition, betrayal, and the devastating consequences of the crack epidemic. It underscores the loss of innocence and the erosion of traditional family structures within the context of a rapidly changing social landscape.
Impact of Alton’s Departure on Franklin and Cissy
Alton’s departure has a profound and lasting impact on both Franklin and Cissy. For Franklin, it solidifies his path, albeit a controversial one. Without his father’s presence to challenge his decisions, Franklin feels emboldened to pursue his business ventures, ultimately leading to his full immersion in the drug trade. The absence of parental influence, coupled with the allure of quick money and power, allows Franklin to rationalize his actions, even as the consequences become increasingly dire.
Cissy, on the other hand, is left to shoulder the burden of supporting the family. She is heartbroken by Alton’s departure and struggles to reconcile his ideals with the reality of their financial struggles. While she initially disapproves of Franklin’s activities, she eventually accepts his financial support, albeit with reservations, demonstrating the complex moral compromises that families are forced to make in the face of economic hardship. The dynamic between Cissy and Franklin shifts significantly, with Cissy becoming increasingly reliant on her son’s success, even as she fears for his safety and the moral implications of his choices.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into Alton Saint’s Role
Why did Alton disapprove of Franklin’s involvement in drug dealing?
Alton disapproved because he believed it was morally wrong and destructive to the community. He had instilled in Franklin the values of hard work, education, and ethical conduct, and he saw Franklin’s involvement in the drug trade as a betrayal of those principles. He also feared the dangers and consequences that inevitably accompanied such activities.
Was Alton involved in any illegal activities prior to Franklin’s entry into the drug trade?
There’s no indication in the first episode or subsequent episodes that Alton was involved in any illegal activities prior to Franklin’s entry into the drug trade. He is portrayed as a hardworking, albeit somewhat disillusioned, man trying to provide for his family through legitimate means.
What were Alton’s political views?
While not explicitly stated in the first episode, Alton’s later involvement with leftist and revolutionary groups indicates a strong sense of social justice and a dissatisfaction with the existing power structures. This underlying sentiment likely contributed to his disapproval of Franklin’s actions, as he saw the drug trade as exploiting the vulnerable within their own community.
How did Alton’s departure affect the financial situation of the Saint family?
Alton’s departure further strained the family’s already precarious financial situation. While he provided some income, his absence meant that Cissy was solely responsible for supporting the household, adding to the pressure that ultimately contributed to her acceptance of Franklin’s financial assistance, regardless of its source.
Did Alton ever try to reconcile with Franklin after leaving?
Alton’s relationship with Franklin is tumultuous and fraught with conflict. He eventually returns and attempts to reconnect with Franklin, but their opposing ideologies and the irreversible choices Franklin has made create significant obstacles.
What happened to Alton after he left? (Spoiler alert for later seasons)
Alton’s journey takes him down a path of political activism and radicalization. He resurfaces later in the series, heavily involved in leftist movements and determined to fight against the very system that he believes enabled the crack epidemic. He eventually goes to Cuba and meets up with his wife.
How does Alton’s character represent the social and political climate of 1980s Los Angeles?
Alton’s character embodies the frustrations and disillusionment of many African Americans during the 1980s. He represents the older generation that strived for upward mobility through traditional means but often faced systemic barriers and limited opportunities. His eventual radicalization reflects the growing sense of anger and resentment towards the societal forces that perpetuated inequality.
How did Alton’s relationship with Cissy evolve after his departure?
Their relationship becomes strained and distant. While Cissy harbors resentment towards Alton for abandoning the family, she also understands his principles. Their interactions become increasingly rare and are often marked by underlying tension and unresolved issues. Eventually they reunite after she goes to Cuba to find him.
Did Alton ever find out the full extent of Franklin’s involvement in the drug trade?
Yes, Alton eventually becomes aware of the vast scale of Franklin’s operation and the devastating impact it has on the community. This knowledge intensifies his moral conflict and further deepens the rift between him and his son.
How did Alton’s ideals clash with Franklin’s pursuit of wealth?
Alton valued integrity and community well-being above all else, while Franklin prioritized financial success, even if it meant compromising his morals. Alton believed that wealth acquired through illegal means was inherently corrupt and detrimental to society, while Franklin saw it as a means to escape poverty and achieve a better life.
What role did Alton’s personal experiences play in shaping his worldview?
Alton’s experiences with racial discrimination and limited opportunities likely shaped his worldview and fueled his desire for social justice. He witnessed firsthand the injustices faced by African Americans in the 1980s, which instilled in him a deep sense of empathy and a commitment to fighting for equality.
Could Alton have prevented Franklin’s descent into the drug trade?
It’s impossible to say definitively. While Alton’s presence and guidance might have influenced Franklin’s decisions, Franklin’s own ambition, the allure of quick money, and the societal pressures he faced ultimately contributed to his chosen path. Alton’s departure certainly removed a crucial voice of opposition, but Franklin’s agency in his own choices cannot be discounted. Ultimately, Alton’s actions were meant to preserve his own sense of morality and self-respect, even if it meant sacrificing his family’s unity.