As the plot develops, we learn that Willy and his oldest son Biff are emotionally attached to nature. This is when Willy Loman, the main character, firstly appears to us. Its first ‘small and fine’ notes represent nature: trees, grass and the horizon. The play starts with the melody of the flute. Last but not least, musical motifs foreground most of the play’s discords and dualities. Secondly, music helps to express the emotional state of the characters better than words. To be more concrete, music brings vivid and vibrant images to people’s minds. But what are the main aims of music scenes in the play? Firstly, the author implements music to create a subliminal effect on the audience. However, a closer consideration of nonverbal expressions and the role of music in this play makes it rather thought-provoking and ambiguous.
Once a German poet, writer and literary critic Christian Johann Heinrich Heine stated the following: “Where words leave off, music begins.” I recall no other quote that fits better this poignant and profound play about thwarted aspirations and disillusionment of a salesman.Īt first sight Death of a Salesman is an uncomplicated dramatic play. Music, play, modern American literature, American Dream. In this article, the author proves the importance of musical motifs in Death of a Salesman by taking a closer look at scenes where Arthur Miller uses music instead of words and discerning as well as unfolding their meaning.