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Death Of A Salesman: Line Analysis

"Bernard can get the best marks in school, y'understand, but when he gets out in the business world, y'understand, you are going to be five times ahead of him."

This quote is Willy talking to Biff and Happy. Willy has the best intentions for his children, but he gives them the wrong advice. He thinks that all they have to do is be well-liked and they will succeed, but by seeking out approval and being well-liked, they won't be liked. On the other hand, Bernard focused on things that would improve himself and become more successful, which made him more well-liked. This creates the effect of a sense of failure surrounding Willy and the whole family. They have the proper intentions for the most part, but they go about it in the wrong way. Linda tries to maintain Willy's dignity, but it just ends up stroking his ego. This quote resonated with me because I see a lot of people try to become the most well-liked. They prioritize what others think of them rather than their own passions, opinions, etc. I try not to fall into this category and try to be myself unapologetically. If I can be my most genuine self, there will be people who don't like me and I'm okay with that, I will be happy with myself and hopefully make meaningful connections that last because I wasn't just displaying a façade to appease them. Whether or not one gets the best grades, my philosophy is that one should strive to be the best version of themselves as possible and seek joy in what they do, and then success and being well-liked will follow. But the intention should mostly be for self-improvement and not for other people's approval.


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