As a result, it is not surprising that Willy responds so dramatically to Biff's claim that their lives have been based on deception. Even though he knows that he has failed his family, he cannot acknowledge such failure openly instead, only Ben can share in this revelation. Willy cannot deprive himself of his dreams by admitting he is only average. Such an admission would force him to openly contradict every grand story he has ever told or is planning to tell. This is exactly the trap Willy is caught in.įor Willy to admit that he is "a dime a dozen" is too painful. Biff is able to see beyond their shortsightedness because he realizes that denying reality is more dangerous and costly in the long run. His choice alienates him from Linda and Happy who are committed to maintaining Willy's fantasies at all costs. He chooses to accept himself on his own terms, not the way Willy imagines or desires him to be. Biff refuses to participate in the charade any longer. His realization is significant because once he verbalizes it to Willy, Linda, and Happy during Scene 13 he separates himself from them. Biff realizes in Scene 8 that he has been reinventing facts just like Willy. Both men struggle with their emotions and their inability to reconcile. Scene 13 provides the final break between Willy and Biff. He and his father argue, and, when Biff breaks down and cries, holding onto Willy, Willy is amazed and "elevated" at Biff's love for him. Biff says that he and Willy are nothing but ordinary people who could easily be replaced by others. Biff is tired of fighting and blaming Willy for his own lack of success. According to Biff, the Lomans have not ever been truthful with one another or themselves. Biff blames Willy for his inability to keep a steady job. Biff confronts Willy with the rubber hose and tells him he will not pity him if he commits suicide.
Willy refuses to shake Biff's hand and tells him to "rot in hell if you leave this house!" Willy accuses Biff of wasting his life out of spite.
Biff informs Willy that he is leaving home forever, severing all ties with the family.
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