Poetic Parallels in ‘Death of a Salesman’: Themes of Struggle & Love

Introduction

Arthur Miller's "Death of a Salesman" is a poignant exploration of the American Dream, familial expectations, and the inevitable confrontation with personal failure. These themes resonate deeply with the human experience and find parallels in various literary works, particularly in poetry. Poems like Dylan Thomas's "Do Not Go Gentle into That Good Night," Langston Hughes's "Mother to Son," and Robert P. Tristram Coffin's "The Secret Heart" serve as literary mirrors reflecting the emotional and thematic core of Miller's play. This essay will explore how each of these poems enhances our understanding of "Death of a Salesman" by drawing connections between poetic expressions of struggle, legacy, and familial love.

"Do Not Go Gentle into That Good Night": A Battle Against Inevitability

Dylan Thomas's "Do Not Go Gentle into That Good Night" is a powerful villanelle that implores a father to resist the inevitability of death. The repeated line, "Rage, rage against the dying of the light," underscores the desperation and urgency of clinging to life. This theme parallels the struggle of Willy Loman, the protagonist of "Death of a Salesman," who grapples with his impending sense of obsolescence and failure. Willy's son, Biff, embodies a similar desperation, as he seeks to prevent his father's tragic descent into despair and suicide. Thomas's poem also touches on the concept of legacy, as evidenced by the line "Because their words had forked no lightning." This sentiment echoes Willy's fear that neither he nor his sons will leave a lasting impact on the world. By drawing these connections, we gain a deeper understanding of Willy's internal conflict and Biff's struggle to reconcile his love for his father with his father's flawed aspirations.

"Mother to Son": Navigating Life's Challenges

Langston Hughes's "Mother to Son" presents a metaphorical staircase as a symbol of life's challenges and the perseverance required to overcome them. The mother's advice that "life has not been a crystal stair" reflects the hardships and setbacks that she has faced, urging her son to persist despite adversity. This message of resilience is mirrored in Willy Loman's tumultuous career as a salesman, marked by rejection and failure. Willy's relentless pursuit of success, despite the clear obstacles in his path, mirrors the mother's determination to persevere. However, unlike the mother in Hughes's poem, Willy's vision of success is clouded by unrealistic dreams, which ultimately leads to his undoing. The parallel between the mother's warnings and Willy's life serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of clinging to illusions rather than facing reality with courage and tenacity.

"The Secret Heart": The Enduring Power of Love

In "The Secret Heart" by Robert P. Tristram Coffin, the imagery of a father lighting a match in the dark serves as a powerful metaphor for the enduring nature of parental love. The poem captures a father's quiet devotion, illuminating the love that persists even when unspoken. In "Death of a Salesman," Willy Loman's love for his sons, particularly Biff, remains unwavering despite their tumultuous relationship. This love is evident in Willy's misguided belief that his death will provide financial security for his family through life insurance. The extinguishing of the match in Coffin's poem parallels Willy's tragic end, yet it also highlights the enduring impression he leaves on his family. By examining this poem, we gain insight into Willy's complex motivations, driven by both love and a profound sense of inadequacy.

Conclusion

The exploration of poems such as "Do Not Go Gentle into That Good Night," "Mother to Son," and "The Secret Heart" reveals the deep thematic connections they share with Arthur Miller's "Death of a Salesman." Each poem provides a unique lens through which we can better understand the intricate dynamics of family, the struggle against inevitable failure, and the enduring power of love. By examining these literary parallels, we gain a richer appreciation for Miller's masterpiece and the universal themes it explores. Ultimately, these poems not only resonate with the narrative of "Death of a Salesman" but also enhance our understanding of the human condition in its pursuit of meaning and connection.

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