Broken Reality

Symbolism is used extensively in Arthur Miller’s play Death of a Salesman. The symbolism related to things that are broken and falling apart is apparent throughout this play. Also, this symbolism is the basis of the ultimate conclusion of the play. As one views from the eyes of the audience Willy Loman’s car, house, and refrigerator fall apart, he also experiences Willy’s broken dreams that Death of a Salesman represents.
Willy Loman worked hard all of his life. He was a salesman and strived to be the best, but he was not. Willy was searching for the “American Dream.” To him, this included owning a house, the land on which the house was built, having a family, owning a car, and having spending money for his family. Willy used his car heavily for his job. His car was his transportation for his job; his job was his livelihood. As the car falls apart, Willy’s job goes through the cracks. One can watch the simultaneous disintegration of Willy’s car and job a...