h the problems that they encounter, but Willy Lowman takes it one step further. His refusal to accept reality is so strong that in his mind he is transported back in time to relive one of the happier days of his life. It was a time when no one argued, Willy and Linda were younger, the financial situation was less of a burden and Biff and Happy enthusiastically welcomed their father back home from a long road trip. Willys need for the drug is satisfied and he is reassured that everything will turn out okay, and the family will soon be as happy as it was in the good old days. The next flashback occurs during a discussion between Willy and Linda. Willy is depressed about his inability to make enough money to support his family, his looks, his personality, and the success of his friend and neighbor, charley. My God if business doesnt pick up, I dont know what Im gonna do! is the comment made by Willy after Linda figures out the difference between the familys income and their expences. Before Linda has a chance to offer any words of consolation, Willy blurts out, Im fat. Im veryfoolish to look at, Linda. In doing this he has depressed himself so much that he is visited by a woman with whom he is having an affair. The womans purpose in this point of the play is to cheer him up. She raises his spirts by telling him how funny and lovable he is, saying, You do make me laughAnd I think youre a wonderful man. And when he is reassured of his attractiveness and competence, the woman disappears, her purpose being fulfilled. Once again the drug has come to the rescue, allowing Willy to postpone having to actually do something about his problem....
