Willy Loman

Appreciating past events, and, retreating to it, are two different actions which should be distinguished. To think about the past for nostalgia is completely normal, though, to use it for the purpose of escaping the current day is destructive. Arthur Miller’s play; “Death of a Salesman”, exhibits the repercussions of denying the present reality, which prompts the individual to dwell upon the past for contentment, eventually leading to utter devastation.

What does it really mean to deny reality? Through the play, Willy Loman illustrates this crippling behaviour. Willy shows that he is incapable of accepting the present truth that he is unsuccessful and unrespected. He dwells on the past and believes his previous “achievements” should score him recognition and prosperity. Willy tries to use these memories to advantage. He had tried this feat when he begged his boss for an in town job. Willy found justification for a guaranteed job just because he “named” his boss; “Your father came to me the day you were born and asked me what I thought of the name of Howard, may he rest in peace.” (p.1247) Willy does not understand that his past has no
He realizes he is no longer respected by Biff, mainly because of his affair. Due to these circumstances, Willy recollects memories from his past to satisfy him. One these memories is when Biff would try and impress Willy through football; “...just for you, I’m going to break through for a touchdown.” (p.1223). This is significant as Biff is ignoring the fact that he is “supposed to pass.”(p.1223), just so he can impress his father. Picture yourself in Willy’s shoes. For instance, my Dad was once, in essence, in denial, for being laid off. He reconciled through memories to appetize him, though he did not let it take him over as he used it as motivation to successfully find a new job. This is completely contrasted from Willy’s case. Is Willy’s actions and behaviour