Understanding Willy Loman in Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller To truly understand Willy Loman, based on the play Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller, the reader must analyze the way his character is developed. Studying his thoughts, his actions, how he relates to other characters, and how other characters relate to him allows the reader to understand the world in which Willy lives. Although Willy sometimes has flashbacks, examining them, as well as his thoughts, helps the reader understand and relate to him better. Willy had very high, but unrealistic, expectations for his boys, especially Biff; he thought success would be guaranteed. This is illustrated in the quote: “I see great things for you guys, I think your problems are over. But remember, start strong and you will finish strong. (pg. 64) Willy was convinced that Biff should become a big star and could not accept the fact that Biff had turned out to be anything but perfect. This is demonstrated when Willy says “My God! Remember how they followed him in high school?” (pg. 16) It is easy to understand that Willy thought the world was against him and that his life would never amount to anything. When he says “I'm always competing with the landfill,” (page 73...... middle of paper ...... he believed that Willy was a great man. He loved him deeply and with all his heart his heart She would believe anything he told her and didn't like it when Biff treated him unkindly and told him, "Be kind to him, because he's just a little boat looking for a port." beginning he had so many hopes and dreams and all he wanted was for his children to be successful. Analyzing his thoughts, his actions and his relationships with the other characters, it is easy to see that all he wanted in life was to be admired and. beloved Perhaps there is a bit of Willy Loman in all of us.