DOAS quotes Flashcards
(15 cards)
“He’s liked, but not- well liked” Act 1
This reflects Willy’s belief that being personally liked is the key to success. He teaches Biff this flawed ideal, contrasting it with Bernard’s academic achievements. This mindset fails, as charisma alone doesn’t alone secure prosperity
“The man who makes an appearance in the buisness world, the man who creates personal interests, is the man who gets ahead” Act 1
Willy’s advice to his sons embodies his distorted view of success- placing charm over skill and hard work. This quote foreshadows Biff’s later disillusionment, where he realises his fathers ideology was fundamentally flawed.
“I am not a dime a dozen! I am Willy Loman” Act 1
Willy’s desperate assertion reflects his struggle against anonymity. He cannot accept that he is one of many, clinging to the belief he is destined for greatness despite the evidence proving otherwise.
“You can’t eat an orange and throw the peel away- a man is not a piece of fruit” Act 2
Willy pleads with his employer Howard, attempting to justify his continued employment despite his declining ability to peform. His metaphor highlights how companies discard workers once they are no longer useful- a brutal reality of the capitalist system.
“He had the wrong dreams, all wrong” Act 2
Biff delivers this blunt realisation about Willy’s misguided pursuit of success. Unlike his father, Biff sees that Willy’s dreams were built on illusions, not tangible achievements. This moment signifies Biff’s acceptance of reality”
“You end up worth more dead than alive” Act 2
This highlights his deep despair and the cruel irony of the situation- his dream of financial success is only attainable through death. It also reflects how capitalism devalues human life in favour of financial gain.
“Nobody dast blame this man” Requiem
Charley defends Willy, arguing that society pressures led to his downfall. This quote suggests that Willy was not solely responsible for his fate- the system set him up for failure. Charley implies a broader critique of societal expectations and the crushing effects of capitalism
“He had a good dream. it’s the only dream you can have- to come out number one man” Requiem
Unlike Biff, Happy refuses to learn from his father’s mistakes, perpetuating the illusion that being “number one” defines success. This highlights the enduring power of false dreams, reinforcing the play’s tragic message
“He’s a human being and a terrible thing is happening to him” Act 1
This quote reveals Linda’s unwavering devotion to Willy. She acknowledges his failures, yet insists on his dignity
“You’ve turned your backs on him” Act 2
This moment highlights Linda’s emotional manipulation- she shifts responsibility onto her sons, rather than acknowledging Willy’s own failures. Her guilt driven loyalty binds her to the truth of Willy’s situation.
“He’s only a little boat looking for a harbour” Act 2
The metaphor of the boat suggests Willy is adrift, searching for meaning. Linda clings to hope, reinforcing Willy’s delusions rather than confronting reality. Her gentle tone masks her deep anxiety
“I made the last payment on the house today”
This is tragically ironic- Willy’s dream of owning a house is finally realised, yet he is not alive to enjoy it. Linda’s quiet grief shows her lifelong repression of emotions. She is left alone, having sacraficed everything for a man who was never truly satisfied.
“Biff, his life is in your hands” Act 2
Linda shifts responsibility for Willy’s wellbeing onto Biff, reinforcing her passive role. Her dsperation highlights her fear of losing Willy, but also her avoidance of direct confrontation
“I can’t cry” Requiem
Linda’s inability to cry reflects her lifelong suppression of emotions. She has spent years supporting Willy, yet now that he is gone, she is left empty, unable to process her grief
“Why are you so hateful to each other” Act 2
Linda’s plea for peace reflects her helplessness in controlling the family’s dysfunction. She avoids deeper issues, instead focusing on surface- level harmony.
