This is in the scene where Biff is going to talk to Bill Oliver and Willy was really excited. Willy seemed to be very excited simply because he believes this is an opportunity for Biff to achieve what he was unable to which is this idea of the "American Dream". In the text it states, "God, Almighty he'll be great yet. A star like that, magnificent, can never really fade away"(Miller 51). This is showing how Willy has great hope in Biff to achieve what he was unable to because of all the talents that Biff ha as an individual.
Ashlei Daniels I agree with roderick. Willy was very excited that Biff was going to talk to Bill Oliver. On page 52, Willy talks about how he so proud of Biff and that hes making change and becoming a better person. Because Willy is so happy she decides to by sun flower seed which he probably doesnt do often judging from his wife's reaction. "he's heading for change.. theres no question. no question at all. Gee, on the way home tonight I'd like to buy some seeds"(52). This explains how happy Willy was of Biff. Biff was finally becoming a man.
In this scene Willy tries to persuade Howard to change his payments and the position of work he does. Howard kept changing the subject while Willy tries to discuss some changes, but Howard is showing that he don't care and he keeps denying Willy. Howard states, "I appreciate that, Willy, but there just is no spot here for you" (Miller 60). Howard shows he don't care what Willy is going through, and he wants him to keep calm and he satisfied wit the job he has now. Willy states, "But I gotta earn money, Howard. I'm in no position to" (Miller 63). Willy try to make Howard feel the pain he witnesses but Howard don't care about Willy's feelings.
I agree with the whole Howard not caring about Willy but I also thing that Howard feels that as of this moment fight now Willy has became dead weight. Howard feels that in Willy’s old age he is not capable to perform and contribute to the company like he used to “you need a nice long rest Willy”(62). I also think that the only reason as to why Howard kept Willy around for so long is because of Willy’s and Howard sr relationship. “I remember when you were born your father came to me and asked if Howard was a good name” (65). This shows that Howard doesn’t really care much about Willy anymore and doesn’t want to waste any more money on him.
I don't think that Howard doesn't care about Willy anymore, he doesn't say anything that would give off that assumption. The fact that Howard even said "you need a nice long rest Willy' (62), shows that he doesn't not care about Willy. It's all about business, which has become a big deal in this play. Howard's noticed Willy's tiredness and thinks that there's not much Willy can bring to the business. Howard even says, "If I had a spot I'd slam you right in, but I just don't have a single solitary spot" (60). He appreciates Willy. And it isn't about Willy's capability to sell as a salesman, it's just him not having the drive to work for him anymore.
This scene has an overall theme of the "American Dream", it is represented throughout the scene. Biff is in the process of achieving the "American Dream", when he goes to meet Bill Oliver in hopes of a great job opportunity. Willy is so excited, hoping to see his son achieve something he's always wanted. Willy says, "Gee whiz! That's really somethin'...I will never get behind a wheel the rest of my life!" (Miller 55). Willy is talking about being rich enough to have people do things for him. The "American Dream" comes up again when Howard is speaking about his recorder. Howard says, "Sure, they're only a hundred and a half. You can't do without it." (Miller 58). This represents Howards living of the "American Dream".
Why was Linda so happy Willy left happy? Linda was excited that Willy was in high-spirits when he left because she wasn't as worried about him as she normally was when he left. She was happy because he was. She felt a sense of comfort that he finally wasn't down in the dumps once she told him about the meeting he was going to have with Howard and his two boys. He felt that it was a breakthrough. An excerpt from DOAS states, "'I'm not worried, darling, because this morning he left in such high spirits, it was like the old days! I'm not afraid anymore'"(56). Linda felt relieved that Willy wasn't stressing as he always did anymore. He finally felt happy and in a good mood. She was also glad that it was a chance that he might not feel suicidal anymore because things were beginning to go right. So he thought. It was just this feeling of hope that came across them both.
Willy believes in Biff obviously .He wants him to get a job , and maybe one day he can be successful like he always wanted his sons to be . The American Dream is all about success . If Willy can get his son to be successful then he feels like he is accomplished something . In the book Willy said, " A star like that , magnificent , can never really fade away " (51) . Willy believes his son will be very successful . He also believes his son is a working progress .
Daija Ford In the beginning of the play, it seems that Biff is getting the most attention from his parents compared to Happy. It can also be inferred that it has been that way for a long time considering that Happy has been trying to get recognition and attention from his parents. Happy has gone as far doing the same things Biff did so that he can receive the same attention and acknowledgement as he does. In the beginning of the play, Linda and Willy were talking about Biff and Happy going to get jobs but then they start to talk about Biff. "Biff was very changed this morning... He could be a- anything in that suit"(Miller 52). Linda and Willy start talking about Biff and how he was so happy that morning and how nice he looked in his suit. They didn't mention how Happy felt that morning or how nice he looked in what he wore. Happy has been trying to get the same attention from his parents and sadly he has yet to receive it.
In this scene, Willy goes to Howard to talk about a few things concerning his job. Willy wants to talk to Howard about the amount of money he is making weekly and the position he has on the job. Willy makes the choice that him being a driver isn't the best job for him anymore and wants Howard to change it. Willy feels the need to change his position so he can gain more money during the week since things aren't going well financially. Willy states, "you said you've try to think of some spots for me here in town... all I need to set my table is fifty dollars a week" (59-60). This shows how since Willy feels as though he wasn't making enough, he wanted to do a different job in order to earn a little more money. However, Howard doesn't gives Willy what he wants since there are no empty spots. Therefore, this causes Willy to have to continue making what he makes. Unfortunately, Willy gets fired by Howard since he claims Willy needs to get some rest. This will not cause Willy and his family to really have to struggle with things.
What happens when Willy goes to Howard to ask for a new job? When Willy goes to Howard to ask for a raise, he ends up getting fired.When asking to not get traveling jobs anymore, Howard ignores him and says there are no other jobs to do. After trying to justify his request, Howard leaves. When he comes back, he says, "I don't want you to represent us. i think you need a good long rest, Willy"(63). Howard tell Willy that he hasn't been pulling his weight and that his sons can take care of him financially. That is his reason for firing him. At the beginning of the book, he found out that willy is not a good salesman and is struggling making sales. His boss has noticed that and fired him.
Why does Howard tells Willy that their is no open job for him anymore?
In the book "Death Of A Salesman" Willy arrives to the office that Howard works in stating that he is not making much money and he tries to ask can he get paid per week so he can have money in his household being that he does not have much money. Willy tells Howard he does not want to travel anymore he wants to stay in one position so he wants to change his position of work. Willy tells Howard he is getting tired maybe because he is now old. Howard soon tells Willy there is no open job for Willy. Howard states, "I appreciate that, Willy, but there just is no spot here for you. If I had a spot i'd slam you right in, but I just don't have a single solitary spot" (60). But why does Howard goes to meet up with people and tries to fire Willy after when he returns?
I notice how Willy still feels guilty about having an affair with another women. When he was on his way to work and he was talking to Linda, he states, " Will you stop mending stockings? At least while I'm in the house. It gets me nervous. I can't tell you. Please" (55). Basically, Willy is saying how he doesn't like seeing her mending the stockings and doesn't want to tell her why he feels that way because maybe he still feels guilty about the affair. After all these years of them being together he never told her that he cheated and still is holding on to the guilt by it. Clearly, this affair has affected his life because he is always complaining about life and not always having enough money to do things but brought his mistress stockings. However when it comes to his wife they can't afford this, they can't do that, so its showing how he how he is still holding on to the guilt by treating his wife badly compared to his mistress.
Why do you think Willy chose to become a salesman, instead of traveling to Alaska/ Africa? In what way did his decison impact him in the long run?
Willy chose to become a salesman instead of traveling with his brother Ben because of the fact what he had saw in another salesman. When Willy had made the final decison to leave off to traveling, that is when he had met a salesman named Dave Singleman. With Dave Singleman, he had saw him as a old man, making money with merchandising and was able to just pick up the phone and make money. In the text it states that Dave Singleman "was eighty-four years old, and he'd drummed merchandise in thirty-one states... [Dave Singleman] pick up his phone and call the buyers, and without leaving his room, at the age of eighty-four, he made his living" (Miller 61). From this quote, it is saying that Willy looked up to this man because of the fact he had become so successful and wealthy with the career of a salesman and Willy wanted to become that. Therefore with that, Willy had made the decision to become a salesman because of the success he had seen through Dave Singleman. More so with that though, it did affect him in a negative way. Becoming a salesman affected Willy in a negative way because of the fact he went from making "a hundred and seventy dollars a week" to barely nothing, then to loosing his job. Therefore, Willy had chose to become a salesman because of the idea of becoming successful and being able to provide for his family. If Willy hadn't become a salesman, then he would have been able to travel to Africa with Ben. If Willy had traveled to Africa, then he could have become rich. Because he would have became rich, he would have fulfilled his American dream, but because he made the decisions he made, it affected in the long run, leaving him to fail and not have a job. Therefore with the decison of becoming a salesman, it left Willy jobless and depress instead of rich and happy.
In this scene, Willy loses his job. He desperately begs Howard to fill in for another position, but Howard continues to deny his request. This shows that Willy can't rely on his sons to provide financially. Willy says to Howard, "I can't throw myself on my sons. I'm not cripple!" (63). To keep his job, Willy continues to convince Howard why he needs the job. Since Willy as well as his sons are not living the American Dream, he has to work and provide for his family. Therefore, in order to make a living everyone is reliant on Willy.
What does Linda tell Biff and what quote does she describes Willy? Linda tells Biff that she told Willy to meet them for dinner at six o' clock, she also ask Biff if he saw Mr. Oliver, She also makes sure to tell Biff that Willy may have big news; he might get the New York job. Linda: Be loving to him. Because he's only a little boat looking for harbor." What she meant was that he a certainty of dreaming big but sometimes it doesn't play how he wants it, and she just want Biff and Happy to be happy for him no matter what.
An reason Willy's bitterness is the fact that he always compare what he has to someone else. If someone else is more fortunate than him, he instantly becomes jealous and starts speaking thinking negatively.When his refrigerator broke down while talking to his wife Linda, he thought about his neighbor Charley he stated " I told you we should've bought a well- advertised machine.Charley brought a General Electric and its twenty years old and its still good, that son-of-a-bitch"(53). Willy compares his refrigerator circumstance to his neighbor Charley and is upset that he is not in the same position. This causes him to call Charley the name he did out of spite and bitterness. Willy compares himself to others and when upset his bitterness shows up.
I strongly believe that Willy forced humiliation upon himself by asking for another/better job. Willy knew for a long time that he was not doing well enough as a salesman anymore and could no longer support his own bills or family. Asking his boss for another job seems pretty pointless, its like asking for a promotion when you're not even good at what you currently do. Willy looks almost desperate and begging a younger man who he knew as a child for a job took all his pride away. "But where am i going to put you, kid?...and everybody's gotta pull his own weight"(Miller 60). Howard, Willy's boss, is extremely younger than Willy and referring to his elder as a kid means that Howard doesn't think of Willy as a man and lacks a sense of respect for him. Howard unintentionally humiliates Willy by showing his lack of respect for Willy.
Jasmine wilson... I Notice when Willy is going through hard times he always seek for Ben to give him advise to lead him in the right direction. Since Howard is firing Willy, Willy doesn't know what do because he has to provide for him and his wife Linda,and since Ben was a successful man that live the American Dream he believe he has all the answers for him to succeed. For example it states" Oh Ben how did you do it? What is the answer? Did you wind up the Alaska deal already?"(64).Willy is calling on Ben to help him figure out what he should do nex,t to get money because he is now in a situation where he is a failure to the American Dream and needs Ben to help him.
Why does Howard pay almost no attention to Willy when he needs help?
In Death of a Salesman Willy desperately wants to get a new position from Howard but he pays very little attention to him. When Willy is talking to Howard he is paying more attention to a voice recording of his son than to Willy who needs his help. Whenever Willy would try to talk Howard would cut him off in the middle of the sentence. " Can we-... I tell you Willy Im gonna take my camera and bandsaw"(58). Howard does not really care about what Willy has to say and Willy cant figure out that he really does not care.
Does Willy push more for the American Dream for his family or for society around him?
I believe Willy push more towards the American Dream for society because during that time in society Willy lived in everyone wanted success and he didnt want to be seen as an outcast. The American Dream was a big goal that every man and woman during the time of the 1950's wanted. Every man wanted to be able to live a luxurious life and provide for their family like Willy wanted which is why he is begging Howard for a job. Willy says, "If i had forty dollars a week--thats all i'd need Howard" (61). Willy is begging Howard because he is in need of money and he is struggling. It shows that this man is not living the American Dream and he wants it. If Willy was to have a job where he is successful, then he would not be seen as an outcast in society and belittled by others.
How does Willy feel to have dinner with his sons? Willy does not like the idea of having dinner with his sons. "Gee whiz ! That's really somethin'. I'm gonna know Howard for a loop, kid. I'll get an advance, and I'll come home with a New York job. Goddammit, now I'm gonna do it! "(55) This shows that he lost the connect from his sons. I believe that Willy somewhat misses the connect that they had.
How does Willy feel to have dinner with his sons? Willy does not like the idea of having dinner with his sons. "Gee whiz ! That's really somethin'. I'm gonna know Howard for a loop, kid. I'll get an advance, and I'll come home with a New York job. Goddammit, now I'm gonna do it! "(55) This shows that he lost the connect from his sons. I believe that Willy somewhat misses the connect that they had. Willy really loves his sons because he begins to beg for the job. "I'm talking about your father! There were promises made across this desk! You mustn't tell me you've got people to see - I put thirty - four years into this firm, Howard , and now I can't pay my insurance! You can't eat the orange and throw the peel away - a man is not a piece of fruit"(62)!
Is Willy genuinely happy for Biff? - I believe that Willy in genuinely happy for Biff because even though he just lost his job he wants Biff to be success full because he had never experienced what is was like to actually work in a office and he wanted him to have the American Dream and wanted him to have a job . On page 63 it says " I cant throw myself on my sons" Eventhough he noticed that he might be risking that he might have to depend on his sons. He didnt care because he wanted Biff to become successful.
Is Linda responsible for Willy's tragic characteristics ?
Honestly, Linda is probable the main reason Willy got to the point he is now being the sad, depressed character that he is. Linda is too much of a pushover and extremely sensitive. She lets things slide that need to be address. For example, in a flash black, when Ben tried to offer Willy a better job in Alaska, Linda wasn't happy with it and showed this by questioning Willy's decision insisting that Willy "[had] a beautiful job [there]" (64). Basically, Linda was defending Willy because Ben was putting him to shame, but he was only being honest. He knew that Willy could do way better, and gave him the opportunity. However, Linda butted in and ruined his chances and didn't allow for him to speak for himself like a MAN.
How do you Characterize Willy at this point in the story?
I this moment in the text i see willy as a very desperate man because he needs a job to maintain his family and it shows how he fulfills Arthur Miller's definition of the common hero. One must see the bigger aspect that Willy is a man who sacrifices time and money for his family, and should be considered a tragedy, but not on a negative aspect. In the text Willy speaks to Howard on giving him a certain pay and says, " Howard' all I need to set is fifty dollars a week"(60). This shows that Willy is only looking for a low pay, and doesn't mind if its only 50 dollars a week, Which is very sad. Willy shows a great example of what he feels and how desperate for a change he really is.
why doesnt willy stop asking howard for a job even though howard is explaing to him that there/s no room for him?
Willy doesnt stop asking howard for him to work because he didnt expect that Howard will be treating him like that. Howard knew that willy was trying to provide for his boys. instead of howard trying to help him he throws everyhting in willy face. he told him to ask his sons for money knwoing that willy wanted to be able to do things on this own while they are doing there's In the text howards says " you go to your sons and tell them your tried" (63) But willy didnt want tot ell his sons that because as he said he his not cripple . He is still able to do things hes not too old yet he can be able ot help out with things . Howard is showing willy that he does not care about anything that willy is saying. Although howard is denying willy . Willy still is going to keep asking him/telling him what he is going to do
I believe Willy only results back to the first option of going back on the road because Howard fries him the job, also he realize that his old friend Howard is not going to give him a better paying spot in the company. the author states, "Howard, you've got to let me go to Boston" (63). He starts to began Howard to gives his position back, so he can provide for himself and his family.
The reason as to why Howard chose to fire Willy is not only because of his random outburst, but also because he feels the need to let him go due to his aging. During their conversation, Willy speaks to Howard on how he needs to keep this job in order to keep money in the house. Howard responds by stating "This is no time for false pride, Willy, you go to your sons and you tell them that you're tired," (63). Based upon Howard's downgrading response, its clear to conclude how he felt towards him and why he fired him as well.
Why do you think Howard keep calling Willy kid even though Willy is much older then him?
I believed that Howard keep calling Willy kid because he know that he is more powerful than Willy and have his job in his hand and can determine his pay. Also Willy is not as successful as he and willy knew Howard since he was born and after all these years Willy don't have a good job that can support his family because he keep asking Howard over and over for money so that he can continue to support his family. In the text it states " If I had forty dollars a week-that's all I'd need. Forty dollars Howard" (61). Willy keep asking for raise but Howard wont even give to him and he know he over Willy and can control how much pay he gets
To reply to Amiyah's quesition, I think the reason why Howard refers to Willy as kid is because, I personally think that he's trying to degrade him in a way. For example, even though Willy is much older than Howard he still under his power.But Howard thinks that that is what makes him much wiser than Willy, even though he clearly got the job because his father was once the owner. For example in the book it states, "You'll have to excuse me, Willy, Igotta see some people. Pull yourself together"(62). This is almost what a more wiser person might say that a person who isn't sure of their self or who is almost like a 'basket-case'. That's why I feel that when howard calls Willy kid that it's a sense of degration.
Do you think Linda actually thought that willie was going to get the raise? Yes I believe that Linda believed that he can get the raise. In the morning when willie was talking to Linda about what he was going to do about getting the raise she encouraged him and push him to try to do it.when willy told her she said"That's the spirt willy....it's changing willy I can feel it changing"(55).willie is telling her what he is going to do and this is her reaction.if Linda did not believe that willy a was going to get the raise then she would not have encouraged him because she would think he was waiting his time even trying.therefore the fact that she encourages him to do this shows her belief in willy.
RODERICK CHAVIS:
ReplyDeleteThis is in the scene where Biff is going to talk to Bill Oliver and Willy was really excited. Willy seemed to be very excited simply because he believes this is an opportunity for Biff to achieve what he was unable to which is this idea of the "American Dream". In the text it states, "God, Almighty he'll be great yet. A star like that, magnificent, can never really fade away"(Miller 51). This is showing how Willy has great hope in Biff to achieve what he was unable to because of all the talents that Biff ha as an individual.
Ashlei Daniels
DeleteI agree with roderick. Willy was very excited that Biff was going to talk to Bill Oliver. On page 52, Willy talks about how he so proud of Biff and that hes making change and becoming a better person. Because Willy is so happy she decides to by sun flower seed which he probably doesnt do often judging from his wife's reaction. "he's heading for change.. theres no question. no question at all. Gee, on the way home tonight I'd like to buy some seeds"(52). This explains how happy Willy was of Biff. Biff was finally becoming a man.
In this scene Willy tries to persuade Howard to change his payments and the position of work he does. Howard kept changing the subject while Willy tries to discuss some changes, but Howard is showing that he don't care and he keeps denying Willy. Howard states, "I appreciate that, Willy, but there just is no spot here for you" (Miller 60). Howard shows he don't care what Willy is going through, and he wants him to keep calm and he satisfied wit the job he has now. Willy states, "But I gotta earn money, Howard. I'm in no position to" (Miller 63). Willy try to make Howard feel the pain he witnesses but Howard don't care about Willy's feelings.
ReplyDeleteI agree with the whole Howard not caring about Willy but I also thing that Howard feels that as of this moment fight now Willy has became dead weight. Howard feels that in Willy’s old age he is not capable to perform and contribute to the company like he used to “you need a nice long rest Willy”(62). I also think that the only reason as to why Howard kept Willy around for so long is because of Willy’s and Howard sr relationship. “I remember when you were born your father came to me and asked if Howard was a good name” (65). This shows that Howard doesn’t really care much about Willy anymore and doesn’t want to waste any more money on him.
DeleteI don't think that Howard doesn't care about Willy anymore, he doesn't say anything that would give off that assumption. The fact that Howard even said "you need a nice long rest Willy' (62), shows that he doesn't not care about Willy. It's all about business, which has become a big deal in this play. Howard's noticed Willy's tiredness and thinks that there's not much Willy can bring to the business. Howard even says, "If I had a spot I'd slam you right in, but I just don't have a single solitary spot" (60). He appreciates Willy. And it isn't about Willy's capability to sell as a salesman, it's just him not having the drive to work for him anymore.
DeleteThis scene has an overall theme of the "American Dream", it is represented throughout the scene. Biff is in the process of achieving the "American Dream", when he goes to meet Bill Oliver in hopes of a great job opportunity. Willy is so excited, hoping to see his son achieve something he's always wanted. Willy says, "Gee whiz! That's really somethin'...I will never get behind a wheel the rest of my life!" (Miller 55). Willy is talking about being rich enough to have people do things for him. The "American Dream" comes up again when Howard is speaking about his recorder. Howard says, "Sure, they're only a hundred and a half. You can't do without it." (Miller 58). This represents Howards living of the "American Dream".
ReplyDeleteWhy was Linda so happy Willy left happy?
ReplyDeleteLinda was excited that Willy was in high-spirits when he left because she wasn't as worried about him as she normally was when he left. She was happy because he was. She felt a sense of comfort that he finally wasn't down in the dumps once she told him about the meeting he was going to have with Howard and his two boys. He felt that it was a breakthrough. An excerpt from DOAS states, "'I'm not worried, darling, because this morning he left in such high spirits, it was like the old days! I'm not afraid anymore'"(56). Linda felt relieved that Willy wasn't stressing as he always did anymore. He finally felt happy and in a good mood. She was also glad that it was a chance that he might not feel suicidal anymore because things were beginning to go right. So he thought. It was just this feeling of hope that came across them both.
Willy believes in Biff obviously .He wants him to get a job , and maybe one day he can be successful like he always wanted his sons to be . The American Dream is all about success . If Willy can get his son to be successful then he feels like he is accomplished something .
ReplyDeleteIn the book Willy said, " A star like that , magnificent , can never really fade away " (51) . Willy believes his son will be very successful . He also believes his son is a working progress .
Daija Ford
ReplyDeleteIn the beginning of the play, it seems that Biff is getting the most attention from his parents compared to Happy. It can also be inferred that it has been that way for a long time considering that Happy has been trying to get recognition and attention from his parents. Happy has gone as far doing the same things Biff did so that he can receive the same attention and acknowledgement as he does. In the beginning of the play, Linda and Willy were talking about Biff and Happy going to get jobs but then they start to talk about Biff. "Biff was very changed this morning... He could be a- anything in that suit"(Miller 52). Linda and Willy start talking about Biff and how he was so happy that morning and how nice he looked in his suit. They didn't mention how Happy felt that morning or how nice he looked in what he wore. Happy has been trying to get the same attention from his parents and sadly he has yet to receive it.
In this scene, Willy goes to Howard to talk about a few things concerning his job. Willy wants to talk to Howard about the amount of money he is making weekly and the position he has on the job. Willy makes the choice that him being a driver isn't the best job for him anymore and wants Howard to change it. Willy feels the need to change his position so he can gain more money during the week since things aren't going well financially. Willy states, "you said you've try to think of some spots for me here in town... all I need to set my table is fifty dollars a week" (59-60). This shows how since Willy feels as though he wasn't making enough, he wanted to do a different job in order to earn a little more money. However, Howard doesn't gives Willy what he wants since there are no empty spots. Therefore, this causes Willy to have to continue making what he makes. Unfortunately, Willy gets fired by Howard since he claims Willy needs to get some rest. This will not cause Willy and his family to really have to struggle with things.
ReplyDeleteWhat happens when Willy goes to Howard to ask for a new job?
ReplyDeleteWhen Willy goes to Howard to ask for a raise, he ends up getting fired.When asking to not get traveling jobs anymore, Howard ignores him and says there are no other jobs to do. After trying to justify his request, Howard leaves. When he comes back, he says, "I don't want you to represent us. i think you need a good long rest, Willy"(63). Howard tell Willy that he hasn't been pulling his weight and that his sons can take care of him financially. That is his reason for firing him. At the beginning of the book, he found out that willy is not a good salesman and is struggling making sales. His boss has noticed that and fired him.
Shadrea Johnson
ReplyDeleteWhy does Howard tells Willy that their is no open job for him anymore?
In the book "Death Of A Salesman" Willy arrives to the office that Howard works in stating that he is not making much money and he tries to ask can he get paid per week so he can have money in his household being that he does not have much money. Willy tells Howard he does not want to travel anymore he wants to stay in one position so he wants to change his position of work. Willy tells Howard he is getting tired maybe because he is now old. Howard soon tells Willy there is no open job for Willy. Howard states, "I appreciate that, Willy, but there just is no spot here for you. If I had a spot i'd slam you right in, but I just don't have a single solitary spot" (60). But why does Howard goes to meet up with people and tries to fire Willy after when he returns?
Kiorie Hammond
ReplyDeleteI notice how Willy still feels guilty about having an affair with another women. When he was on his way to work and he was talking to Linda, he states, " Will you stop mending stockings? At least while I'm in the house. It gets me nervous. I can't tell you. Please" (55). Basically, Willy is saying how he doesn't like seeing her mending the stockings and doesn't want to tell her why he feels that way because maybe he still feels guilty about the affair. After all these years of them being together he never told her that he cheated and still is holding on to the guilt by it. Clearly, this affair has affected his life because he is always complaining about life and not always having enough money to do things but brought his mistress stockings. However when it comes to his wife they can't afford this, they can't do that, so its showing how he how he is still holding on to the guilt by treating his wife badly compared to his mistress.
Why do you think Willy chose to become a salesman, instead of traveling to Alaska/ Africa? In what way did his decison impact him in the long run?
ReplyDeleteWilly chose to become a salesman instead of traveling with his brother Ben because of the fact what he had saw in another salesman. When Willy had made the final decison to leave off to traveling, that is when he had met a salesman named Dave Singleman. With Dave Singleman, he had saw him as a old man, making money with merchandising and was able to just pick up the phone and make money. In the text it states that Dave Singleman "was eighty-four years old, and he'd drummed merchandise in thirty-one states... [Dave Singleman] pick up his phone and call the buyers, and without leaving his room, at the age of eighty-four, he made his living" (Miller 61). From this quote, it is saying that Willy looked up to this man because of the fact he had become so successful and wealthy with the career of a salesman and Willy wanted to become that. Therefore with that, Willy had made the decision to become a salesman because of the success he had seen through Dave Singleman. More so with that though, it did affect him in a negative way. Becoming a salesman affected Willy in a negative way because of the fact he went from making "a hundred and seventy dollars a week" to barely nothing, then to loosing his job. Therefore, Willy had chose to become a salesman because of the idea of becoming successful and being able to provide for his family. If Willy hadn't become a salesman, then he would have been able to travel to Africa with Ben. If Willy had traveled to Africa, then he could have become rich. Because he would have became rich, he would have fulfilled his American dream, but because he made the decisions he made, it affected in the long run, leaving him to fail and not have a job. Therefore with the decison of becoming a salesman, it left Willy jobless and depress instead of rich and happy.
In this scene, Willy loses his job. He desperately begs Howard to fill in for another position, but Howard continues to deny his request. This shows that Willy can't rely on his sons to provide financially. Willy says to Howard, "I can't throw myself on my sons. I'm not cripple!" (63). To keep his job, Willy continues to convince Howard why he needs the job. Since Willy as well as his sons are not living the American Dream, he has to work and provide for his family. Therefore, in order to make a living everyone is reliant on Willy.
ReplyDeleteWhat does Linda tell Biff and what quote does she describes Willy?
ReplyDeleteLinda tells Biff that she told Willy to meet them for dinner at six o' clock, she also ask Biff if he saw Mr. Oliver, She also makes sure to tell Biff that Willy may have big news; he might get the New York job. Linda: Be loving to him. Because he's only a little boat looking for harbor." What she meant was that he a certainty of dreaming big but sometimes it doesn't play how he wants it, and she just want Biff and Happy to be happy for him no matter what.
Mirandah Phillips
ReplyDeleteWhat might be the cause for Willy's bitterness
An reason Willy's bitterness is the fact that he always compare what he has to someone else. If someone else is more fortunate than him, he instantly becomes jealous and starts speaking thinking negatively.When his refrigerator broke down while talking to his wife Linda, he thought about his neighbor Charley he stated " I told you we should've bought a well- advertised machine.Charley brought a General Electric and its twenty years old and its still good, that son-of-a-bitch"(53). Willy compares his refrigerator circumstance to his neighbor Charley and is upset that he is not in the same position. This causes him to call Charley the name he did out of spite and bitterness. Willy compares himself to others and when upset his bitterness shows up.
I strongly believe that Willy forced humiliation upon himself by asking for another/better job. Willy knew for a long time that he was not doing well enough as a salesman anymore and could no longer support his own bills or family. Asking his boss for another job seems pretty pointless, its like asking for a promotion when you're not even good at what you currently do. Willy looks almost desperate and begging a younger man who he knew as a child for a job took all his pride away. "But where am i going to put you, kid?...and everybody's gotta pull his own weight"(Miller 60). Howard, Willy's boss, is extremely younger than Willy and referring to his elder as a kid means that Howard doesn't think of Willy as a man and lacks a sense of respect for him. Howard unintentionally humiliates Willy by showing his lack of respect for Willy.
ReplyDeleteJasmine wilson...
ReplyDeleteI Notice when Willy is going through hard times he always seek for Ben to give him advise to lead him in the right direction. Since Howard is firing Willy, Willy doesn't know what do because he has to provide for him and his wife Linda,and since Ben was a successful man that live the American Dream he believe he has all the answers for him to succeed. For example it states" Oh Ben how did you do it? What is the answer? Did you wind up the Alaska deal already?"(64).Willy is calling on Ben to help him figure out what he should do nex,t to get money because he is now in a situation where he is a failure to the American Dream and needs Ben to help him.
Why does Howard pay almost no attention to Willy when he needs help?
ReplyDeleteIn Death of a Salesman Willy desperately wants to get a new position from Howard but he pays very little attention to him. When Willy is talking to Howard he is paying more attention to a voice recording of his son than to Willy who needs his help. Whenever Willy would try to talk Howard would cut him off in the middle of the sentence. " Can we-... I tell you Willy Im gonna take my camera and bandsaw"(58). Howard does not really care about what Willy has to say and Willy cant figure out that he really does not care.
Destiny Johnson December 18, 2013
ReplyDeleteDoes Willy push more for the American Dream for his family or for society around him?
I believe Willy push more towards the American Dream for society because during that time in society Willy lived in everyone wanted success and he didnt want to be seen as an outcast. The American Dream was a big goal that every man and woman during the time of the 1950's wanted. Every man wanted to be able to live a luxurious life and provide for their family like Willy wanted which is why he is begging Howard for a job. Willy says, "If i had forty dollars a week--thats all i'd need Howard" (61). Willy is begging Howard because he is in need of money and he is struggling. It shows that this man is not living the American Dream and he wants it. If Willy was to have a job where he is successful, then he would not be seen as an outcast in society and belittled by others.
How does Willy feel to have dinner with his sons?
ReplyDeleteWilly does not like the idea of having dinner with his sons. "Gee whiz ! That's really somethin'. I'm gonna know Howard for a loop, kid. I'll get an advance, and I'll come home with a New York job. Goddammit, now I'm gonna do it! "(55) This shows that he lost the connect from his sons. I believe that Willy somewhat misses the connect that they had.
How does Willy feel to have dinner with his sons?
ReplyDeleteWilly does not like the idea of having dinner with his sons. "Gee whiz ! That's really somethin'. I'm gonna know Howard for a loop, kid. I'll get an advance, and I'll come home with a New York job. Goddammit, now I'm gonna do it! "(55) This shows that he lost the connect from his sons. I believe that Willy somewhat misses the connect that they had. Willy really loves his sons because he begins to beg for the job. "I'm talking about your father! There were promises made across this desk! You mustn't tell me you've got people to see - I put thirty - four years into this firm, Howard , and now I can't pay my insurance! You can't eat the orange and throw the peel away - a man is not a piece of fruit"(62)!
Is Willy genuinely happy for Biff?
ReplyDelete- I believe that Willy in genuinely happy for Biff because even though he just lost his job he wants Biff to be success full because he had never experienced what is was like to actually work in a office and he wanted him to have the American Dream and wanted him to have a job . On page 63 it says " I cant throw myself on my sons" Eventhough he noticed that he might be risking that he might have to depend on his sons. He didnt care because he wanted Biff to become successful.
Is Linda responsible for Willy's tragic characteristics ?
ReplyDeleteHonestly, Linda is probable the main reason Willy got to the point he is now being the sad, depressed character that he is. Linda is too much of a pushover and extremely sensitive. She lets things slide that need to be address. For example, in a flash black, when Ben tried to offer Willy a better job in Alaska, Linda wasn't happy with it and showed this by questioning Willy's decision insisting that Willy "[had] a beautiful job [there]" (64). Basically, Linda was defending Willy because Ben was putting him to shame, but he was only being honest. He knew that Willy could do way better, and gave him the opportunity. However, Linda butted in and ruined his chances and didn't allow for him to speak for himself like a MAN.
How do you Characterize Willy at this point in the story?
ReplyDeleteI this moment in the text i see willy as a very desperate man because he needs a job to maintain his family and it shows how he fulfills Arthur Miller's definition of the common hero. One must see the bigger aspect that Willy is a man who sacrifices time and money for his family, and should be considered a tragedy, but not on a negative aspect. In the text Willy speaks to Howard on giving him a certain pay and says, " Howard' all I need to set is fifty dollars a week"(60). This shows that Willy is only looking for a low pay, and doesn't mind if its only 50 dollars a week, Which is very sad. Willy shows a great example of what he feels and how desperate for a change he really is.
why doesnt willy stop asking howard for a job even though howard is explaing to him that there/s no room for him?
ReplyDeleteWilly doesnt stop asking howard for him to work because he didnt expect that Howard will be treating him like that. Howard knew that willy was trying to provide for his boys. instead of howard trying to help him he throws everyhting in willy face. he told him to ask his sons for money knwoing that willy wanted to be able to do things on this own while they are doing there's In the text howards says " you go to your sons and tell them your tried" (63) But willy didnt want tot ell his sons that because as he said he his not cripple . He is still able to do things hes not too old yet he can be able ot help out with things . Howard is showing willy that he does not care about anything that willy is saying. Although howard is denying willy . Willy still is going to keep asking him/telling him what he is going to do
I believe Willy only results back to the first option of going back on the road because Howard fries him the job, also he realize that his old friend Howard is not going to give him a better paying spot in the company. the author states, "Howard, you've got to let me go to Boston" (63). He starts to began Howard to gives his position back, so he can provide for himself and his family.
ReplyDeleteWhy did Howard choose to fire Willy?
ReplyDeleteThe reason as to why Howard chose to fire Willy is not only because of his random outburst, but also because he feels the need to let him go due to his aging. During their conversation, Willy speaks to Howard on how he needs to keep this job in order to keep money in the house. Howard responds by stating "This is no time for false pride, Willy, you go to your sons and you tell them that you're tired," (63). Based upon Howard's downgrading response, its clear to conclude how he felt towards him and why he fired him as well.
Why do you think Howard keep calling Willy kid even though Willy is much older then him?
ReplyDeleteI believed that Howard keep calling Willy kid because he know that he is more powerful than Willy and have his job in his hand and can determine his pay. Also Willy is not as successful as he and willy knew Howard since he was born and after all these years Willy don't have a good job that can support his family because he keep asking Howard over and over for money so that he can continue to support his family. In the text it states " If I had forty dollars a week-that's all I'd need. Forty dollars Howard" (61). Willy keep asking for raise but Howard wont even give to him and he know he over Willy and can control how much pay he gets
To reply to Amiyah's quesition, I think the reason why Howard refers to Willy as kid is because, I personally think that he's trying to degrade him in a way. For example, even though Willy is much older than Howard he still under his power.But Howard thinks that that is what makes him much wiser than Willy, even though he clearly got the job because his father was once the owner. For example in the book it states, "You'll have to excuse me, Willy, Igotta see some people. Pull yourself together"(62). This is almost what a more wiser person might say that a person who isn't sure of their self or who is almost like a 'basket-case'. That's why I feel that when howard calls Willy kid that it's a sense of degration.
ReplyDeleteSHAKIIM HL
ReplyDeleteDo you think Linda actually thought that willie was going to get the raise? Yes I believe that Linda believed that he can get the raise. In the morning when willie was talking to Linda about what he was going to do about getting the raise she encouraged him and push him to try to do it.when willy told her she said"That's the spirt willy....it's changing willy I can feel it changing"(55).willie is telling her what he is going to do and this is her reaction.if Linda did not believe that willy a was going to get the raise then she would not have encouraged him because she would think he was waiting his time even trying.therefore the fact that she encourages him to do this shows her belief in willy.