Economic Conflict: Willy vs Howard Wagner

The conflict between Willy's need for a secure job and Howard's cold business logic, representing the disposability of the aging worker in capitalism.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

The Request for a Desk Job

A Salesman's Plea The Approach Willy enters Howard's office, hoping to be transferred to a New York position. He is tired, sixty-three years old, and cannot travel anymore. He asks for a modest salary of sixty-five dollars a week. Howard's Distraction Howard is more interested in his new wire recorder than in Willy's plea. He plays recordings of his family, showing off the machine. The technology symbolizes the modern, impersonal business world. The Imbalance Willy appeals to loyalty and personal history, but Howard sees only business. There is no emotional connection. The conflict is between the old values of friendship and the new values of efficiency.

The Dismissal

The Final Rejection The Cold Decision Howard tells Willy that he cannot represent the firm anymore. He suggests a rest, but the message is clear: Willy is fired. He is told to turn in his samples. Willy's Desperation Willy tries to argue, reminding Howard of his years of service and the promises made by his father. He tells the story of Dave Singleman, but it falls on deaf ears. The Machine's Mockery The wire recorder accidentally plays Howard's son's voice, a mechanical recitation of state capitals. The sound seems to mock Willy's emotional plea. He is defeated by a world that has no place for him.

Morning, present day

Later that morning