My personal reaction to this novel was surprise. When I started reading the introduction of the book, it was written like a normal book. The first chapter, however, sets the scene of a play and then it was written like a play script.
The book left me feeling depressed and sad for the main character, Willy Loman, who never could attain his goal of the American Dream.
Honestly, I chose this book because it was not as long as some of the over novels on the list provided.
My reflection on the organization of the novel: The novels switches from things happening in the present time to remembering things that happened in the past. The “flashbacks” help the reader to understand Willy Loman’s present state of mind.
Symbols and Motifs: I think garden is a symbol of prosperity for Willie. He is
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The jungle/woods is symbolic of life and the diamonds are symbolic of success. Ben would always tell Willy he must “go into the jungle and fetch a diamond out.”
Importance of this novel to our society or culture: This novel helps us to understand that no one is perfect and everyone’s idea of the American Dream differs and holding yourself to unattainable achievement in your life can bring you to ruin. It makes one reassess his idea of success and what is most important in life.
Description of a pivotal scene: A pivotal scene in the novel is near the end when Happy, Willy’s son, is extremely upset with his brother, Biff, when Biff says that Willy didn’t know who he (Willy) was. Biff has recognized the truth about himself when he says, “I know who I am, kid.” Biff now can recognize reality and be happy with who he is as a person.
Description of literary elements: The American Dream is an element used in the author’s storytelling. Willy believes in the promise of what he considers to be the American Dream. Yet his faith in the dream leads to his rapid decline and