Loss of the American Dream

The American Dream is the ideal way of living for people trying to create the well rounded, cookie cutter family. In the play Death of a Salesman, The Loman's attempt their own version to american dream through rough patches and conflicts. Firstly, lies and excuses point the Loman family in the direction to become dysfunctional and broken. Moreover, The families inability to accept facts and faults help lead them to tragedy. Lastly, Willys brother finds the American Dream which Willy tries to act upon and make possible. Thus, the buildup of false impressions leads to the corruption and loss of the american dream. Throughout the play, lies and excuses point the Loman family in the direction to becoming dysfunctional and broken. While looking for his father, Biff catches Willy with another woman. He says, “Because I know he’s a fake and he doesn’t like anybody around who knows” (I, 40), showing how he witnessed them together. According to Lauren Sandler, “marriage has not worked out for most people they know” (Sandler, 73). Linda decides to ignore the fact that her husband has suicidal thoughts and does not try to end his gas preparation. “How can I insult him that way? I don’t know what to do” (I, 43). Lastly, Willy continues to make excuses for himself and his sons, specifically on why they have not obtained the American Dream yet. There’s more people! That’s what’s ruining this country! The competition is maddening! Smell the stink from that apartment house!” (I, 12). Furthermore, the families lies and excuses inability to accept facts and faults helps lead them to tragedy. Even though Biff and Happy are not successful, they still find a way to stay cocky no matter the situation. “That’s what I dream about Biff. Sometimes I wanna just rip my clothes off in the middle of the store and outbox that goddamned merchandise manager. I mean I can outbox, out lift and outrun anybody in that store” (I, 18). Linda cannot except the facts that Willy is