Recently, Goodreads added a Rereading Feature, enabling members to keep track of how many times they've read a book. I wonder how many times I've read Death of a Salesman.

The first time I read it was in high school, and I didn't really like it. In later years, I developed an appreciation for the play and assigned it to my college literature classes. I even got a VHS tape of the 1985 film with Dustin Hoffman and John Malkovich and watched it with my students.

Now, I find myself teaching a literature course again. I needed a play, and Death of a Salesman fit my theme. It's been maybe ten years since I last read it, but each time I read it, at each stage of my life, I get something different from it. I get more from it, so much more.

I want to say that I have no words to describe how I feel on my umpteenth reading (my official reread number), but it isn't true. I have too many words. I think I could write an essay on the stage directions alone.

The play is filled with powerful imagery and themes. The stage directions, like "A melody is heard, played upon a flute. It is small and fine, telling of grass and trees and the horizon. The curtain rises," set the tone and create a vivid picture in the reader's mind.

The dream sequences in the play are also significant. They show Willy's hopes and aspirations, as well as his delusions. In the dream, Willy and his sons are happy and successful, but in reality, they face many difficulties and disappointments.

The contrast between the dream and reality is a recurring theme in the play. It highlights the gap between what we want and what we actually have. It also shows how our dreams can sometimes lead us astray.

In the end, I ask myself if Biff was right, if Willy "had the wrong dreams." But I don't think so. Willy was lost, but his dreams weren't wrong. His desire to provide for his family and leave a legacy was a noble one. It was just that he went about it in the wrong way.

"Death of a Salesman" is a powerful and thought-provoking play. It makes us question our own dreams and aspirations, as well as the choices we make in life. It shows us that sometimes, the things we think are important may not be in the end. And it reminds us that life is short, and we should make the most of it.

Finally, I discovered the book/play that I had been seeking for so long. It is a remarkable piece of work that presents the world as it truly is. It strips away all the unnecessary fluff and the overly optimistic fairy tale endings. Instead, it showcases how even with great ambition and intense hard work, more often than not, one ends up just like everyone else.

The truth is that we are all essentially the same. As Biff Loman so aptly put it, "A dime a dozen." No matter how sociable or determined a person may be, it doesn't set them apart from the rest. In fact, it only serves to place them firmly among the crowd.

This book/play is truly excellent. Arthur Miller has most definitely earned all the awards and accolades that have come his way. His ability to capture the essence of human nature and the harsh realities of life is truly remarkable. It is a work that will stay with you long after you have finished reading or watching it.

A Eulogy for the American Dream

The American Dream has long been a symbol of hope and opportunity, a vision that has drawn countless people to the shores of the United States. It is the idea that anyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, can achieve success and prosperity through hard work and determination.

However, in recent years, the American Dream has come under threat. The gap between the rich and the poor has widened, and many people are struggling to make ends meet. The cost of education, healthcare, and housing has skyrocketed, making it increasingly difficult for ordinary Americans to achieve their goals.

Despite these challenges, the American Dream still holds a powerful allure. It is a reminder that we are all capable of great things, and that with hard work and perseverance, we can overcome any obstacle. It is a vision of a better future, a future where everyone has the opportunity to pursue their dreams and live a fulfilling life.

As we look to the future, we must not lose sight of the American Dream. We must continue to work hard, to fight for equality and opportunity, and to build a society that is fair and just for all. Only then can we truly say that the American Dream lives on.

\\n  \\n    Book Review\\n  \\n
Arthur Miller is truly an outstanding writer. His work, Death of a Salesman, which was written in 1949, earns a solid 4 out of 5 stars. Most Americans encounter this book in middle school as a required reading for their English courses. I'm not entirely sure when I first read it, but I re-read it during my college days as part of my English degree. The second time around, I found myself enjoying it more, although it remains a rather difficult book to read. This difficulty doesn't stem from poor writing; rather, it's due to the heavy topics and intense emotions it explores.

The story centers around the Loman family. The patriarch has spent over 30 years working as a salesman, which encompasses most of his adult life. However, as time passes, his career comes to an end, and he is forced to confront the harsh reality of being a 60+ year old man in the mid-20th century, between the two world wars, when life in America was far from comfortable. The play delves into various themes such as mental illness, depression, parenting, suicide, the purpose of life, and the role of a father and husband. I, like many readers, am not particularly fond of the main character. He is a tragic figure who seems unable to do the right thing for those around him. However, it's important to note that this isn't entirely his fault; it reflects an issue that was prevalent in society at that time.

Miller's talent is truly remarkable. He has a remarkable ability to capture the mental state of his characters, each of whom grapples with issues that we can all relate to on some level. Although they take these struggles to a new and higher level, we can still see parallels in our own lives. Whether it's a teacher, father, uncle, grandfather, or someone else close to us, we have witnessed similar situations unfold. And it's not a pretty sight. The various passages and speeches delivered by each character are incredibly powerful, compelling us as readers to reflect on what society has done to us. But then again, we all have choices and should know better. This book makes you think deeply, and for that reason, it is an excellent read that everyone should consider, or at least watch the play when it is performed.

\\n  \\n    About Me\\n  \\n
For those who are new to me or my reviews, here's a little about me: I am an avid reader, writer, and now blogger. I read a vast amount of books, write extensively, and now share my thoughts and reviews on my blog. First, I post my book reviews on Goodreads, and then I transfer them to my WordPress blog at https://thisismytruthnow.com. On my blog, you'll also find reviews of TV and films, the revealing and introspective 365 Daily Challenge, and plenty of blogging about the places I've visited around the world. You can find all of my social media profiles to get more details about me, including who I am, what I do, when and where I do it, and see my pictures. I would love it if you left a comment and let me know what you think. Please also vote in the poll and rate the review. Thank you for stopping by. Note: All of the written content is my original creation and copyrighted to me, but the graphics and images were linked from other sites and belong to their respective owners. I am very grateful to the original creators for their work.

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At first, it wasn't attractive to me.

As I went along, it became interesting and I couldn't put it down.

And what was even more interesting than the story itself was the fact that there was a quote from this book in the form of a film script.

This added an extra layer of depth and intrigue to the whole experience.

I found myself getting completely immersed in the world of the book and the ideas it presented.

It made me think about things in a different way and opened my eyes to new perspectives.

Overall, it was a surprisingly engaging and thought-provoking read that I would highly recommend to others.

I really loathe giving this book (well, play) just one star. In fact, I detest awarding any \\"classic\\" a single star. After all, it must have achieved historical significance for a certain reason and is cherished by numerous people. In most classics of this kind, even if I'm not fond of the story, characters, and so on, I usually can discover that \\"spark\\" which has made it so widely popular for so many years. However, I can truthfully state that I found no redeeming qualities in Death of a Salesman. None at all. Sigh.

Perhaps I would have felt more at ease actually witnessing the play rather than reading it, but, for me, this entire play was tiresome and dull. I'm aware that I might sound like a typical high-school student, but it's the truth. The storyline lacked excitement, I didn't have any concern for any of the characters, and the whole thing simply felt flavorless. Moreover, the whole concept of \\"these characters have become victims of the American Dream\\" seemed overused even before the first act concluded.

And, this is probably my inner feminist speaking, but all of the women in this play were worthless. We have five women in this play. One is a secretary and has only four lines. The next is Linda, who is pretty much like a piece of furniture. She submits to whatever Willy says (apparently because she has \\"infinite patience\\") and contributes almost nothing to the play. Oh, and the other three? They're prostitutes. How classy.

He has read this work three or four times - it is very easy to read Miller, which has its merit when it comes to theater - and, although he still enjoys it, he finds more flaws each time.

Miller is a strict moralist and he is becoming softer, more understanding of our miseries, more indulgent with the sins that we all commit so frequently, and more uncomfortable with the extreme reactions that the "good" have towards the "bad" in Miller's works.

Now that he has read a good part of his theater in the edition published by Tusquets, "Teatro reunido", and perhaps because we are all more sensitive to the topic, finally, the role that women play in his works powerfully attracts his attention. Of course, they were different times, but the glorification of the role of the sacrificed, suffering wife, who professes unconditional love for the troubled husband, to whom everything is forgiven, even if it means denying reality and her annulment as a person, when they are not simply extras, mere objects of desire, temptation and even perdition, is quite shocking.

A nihilistic petit bourgeois has chosen to take his own life.

His actions are driven by a rather convoluted and disturbing motivation. It seems that through his lack of adherence to the traditional proprietary marriage ritualism, his offspring have become lumpenized.

Fearing for their future, he believes that by ending his life, they will inherit insurance proceeds.

He envisions them idling away this money in narcotic binges, perhaps as a way to numb the pain and confusion that has been brought upon them by his choices.

This tragic story highlights the complex and often self-destructive nature of some individuals within the petit bourgeois class, as well as the far-reaching consequences of their actions on their families.

It serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of values, traditions, and responsible decision-making in maintaining the stability and well-being of society.

**The Importance of Being Well-Liked**

Arthur Miller's play "Death of a Salesman" (1949) is widely regarded as one of the most influential works of modern times. The Lomans have become such iconic figures that they have even made appearances in popular shows like "Seinfeld" and "The Simpsons". These references in popular culture not only speak to the enduring popularity of the play but also to the universality of its themes.

The play focuses on the life of Willy Loman, a once-successful salesman whose fortunes have declined. He and his wife Linda struggle to make ends meet, and their sons, Biff and Happy, have not lived up to their father's expectations. Biff, in particular, has a complicated relationship with his father, harboring a grudge that stems from past disappointments.

Despite the play's age, its themes still resonate with audiences today. The idea of the American Dream and the importance of being well-liked are as relevant now as they were in the 1940s. Miller's masterful use of language and his ability to blend different levels of consciousness make the play a powerful and moving experience.
Reading the play without the added benefit of a performance can still be a rewarding experience, as Miller's words bring the characters and their world to life. However, seeing the play staged or watching a film adaptation can add another layer of depth and understanding.
In conclusion, "Death of a Salesman" is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences with its powerful themes and unforgettable characters. It is a must-read for anyone interested in drama, American literature, or the human condition.

Conclusion

Arthur Miller's "Death of a Salesman" is a remarkable play that explores the themes of the American Dream, the importance of being well-liked, and the consequences of living a life based on false hopes and ideals. Its enduring popularity and relevance make it a classic of modern drama, and a must-read for anyone interested in the human experience.

When I completed reading this book during my AP Literature class, I actually cheered, clapped, and high-fived my friends sitting beside me. The cycle of utter despair had been shattered! My soul could now sing a song of optimism and joy.

Before delving into this book, there was still a tiny shred of doubt lingering in my mind. The doubt that perhaps I should add countless more classics to my reading list, fearing that my brain would deteriorate and burst under the pressure of contemporary fiction.

No. Just, no. The reason I'm awarding Death of a Salesman two stars is that there is some underlying meaning if one looks deeply enough. It's not completely worthless. However, there are numerous books I've read that aren't even regarded as high literature but far surpass this one in quality.

It's not that I loathe literature (which is, in itself, a subjective term). I adored Jane Eyre, To Kill a Mockingbird, and Wuthering Heights. But this book made me want to slap someone - especially Willy Loman - and storm off in a fit of dramatic frustration. Every time my teacher lauded a particular phrase or piece of writing, I would mentally shake my head. Not because I don't respect my teacher, but because I couldn't comprehend why he thought the writing in this book was extraordinary at all. Maybe I'm simply unaccustomed to the play format, but I was far from impressed.

Both the story and the characters were atrocious. I understood, almost appreciated, and ultimately despised the plot and its unsatisfactory portrayal of a tragic hero/failed American dream. None of the characters elicited any empathy. Willy was pitiful - not in a malicious way - Biff and Happy were hopeless, and Linda was far too blind and uninteresting. I detested how Linda endured Willy's abuse and even seemed to enjoy it to some extent. That's how it is in some abusive relationships, but the way Arthur Miller presented it in this play upset me.

Overall, I do not recommend this book. I'm glad I can finally move on to something else.

*review cross-posted on my blog, the quiet voice.

Although I always try to claim that I have no preference for non-literary and tragic novels, but who can claim that this work has no reality?

This work - by God - is like a step in a way, to return to the real world and realize a pure heart that life is not so simple.

A beautiful tragic work that suits a hot day like today. It makes us reflect on the complexity and beauty of life. We often take life for granted, but through such works, we are reminded that there is much more to it than meets the eye. It makes us feel the emotions and experiences of the characters, and in doing so, we gain a deeper understanding of our own lives. This is the power of literature, and this tragic work is a prime example of it.

What worries you, my friend Wailly? I will tell you what worries Wailly and what also worries you:

- Which of us has not been imprisoned by the cares of work, the cares of the day, and the cares of his livelihood? Which of us has not been held captive by thoughts of livelihood and the future? His future, the future of his children after him, the near future and the distant future.

- Which of us has not dreamed of the American dream? The American dream of quick wealth at a young age and enjoying money and spending it.

- Which of us has not feared for the way his children are educated, at the level of education they receive, at the level of their achievements in what they learn? He struggles hard to provide the best way of education for his children. Is this how he raises them? Charlie answers and repeats this sentence many times simply that he entered the labor market at the age of seventeen and left it at the age of twenty-one and claims that he left very rich. So at a time when many people are concerned with their children obtaining knowledge, Charlie had entered the job market and left rich. So the lesson from Charlie's point of view and the American dream is not necessarily the value of what you learn but the value of what you get in terms of money and salary even if you do not put in the corresponding effort. So life, my friend, is not completely fair. It may be given to someone who has no skill, no effort, and no talent, and it may be denied to someone who deserves it.

- Your main worry and that of your children is that you have not raised them to accumulate wealth, and wealth escapes from them although you have raised them with a good upbringing and they have both grown up to work hard, but wealth escapes from them and they cannot accumulate it at a time when wealth is flowing to those who have less talent and effort than them.

- It hurts you to see the look of your children at you and their feeling of your inability to provide for your needs after you have aged and worked for the same company for 36 years.

Wailly: The sixty-year-old father who gets his daily strength from selling door to door. He still struggles and goes here and there and his daily strength fluctuates based on the proportion of his sales. Some days he sells large quantities and some days he cannot sell enough to meet his needs. Wailly lives a crisis after sixty. The feeling of impotence, lack of skill, lack of value, and that he is not wanted even by his children. Wailly has an excessive sense of self-esteem. He exaggerates a lot in his sense of his importance and in the love of people for him and he wishes if his children would receive the same attention and love from people. He has insisted throughout 36 years of his life although others have obtained the desired thing - wealth - within 4 years and in a short period of their lives. He finally wishes if he had realized himself in his children. He wishes if one of them had obtained the thing.

Beef: The son who has bad luck and changes jobs and has not achieved success. He reaches the age of 34 without even forming a family.

Habi: The younger brother who earns well and rents a comfortable and beautiful apartment and separates from his parents to live his own life but at the same time he hates serving his employers. He says in a quote that he is the ugliest part of this great farce:

"A great farce, one of the most beautiful things I've read this year. I recommend it to all friends."