The Iceman Cometh Essay Example

throughout both plays. Hickey regretted it because he made her wife believe that he could change, but he didn’t regret killing her; he managed to save her from the vain pipe dream; he doesn’t do anything to change it. Willy, instead, has had a life full of regrets. He didn’t manage to create a strong, united, and happy family as the American Dream preached. He cheated on his wife and destroyed the relationship with his son, Biff. Many people, important in Willy’s life, don’t respect him.

Unlike Hickey, he tries at all costs, to fix his life and his family. However, his method of dealing with his problems brings on more problems. Pressure, anxiety, and angry are a constant presence in both plays. All his life Willy sought desperately to be “well-liked”, but after he figured he didn’t manage to achieve it, he places tremendous pressure on Biff to fulfill it for him, even if Biff wants to make a career, different from the one of his father. In his obsession with being “well-liked,” Willy ignores the love that his family can offer him. When Hickey is ready to announce his murder, all the people stay still like wax figures and stare at him anxiously.

Biff’s anger with his father started since he learned that his father cheated on his mother and continues until he dies. The end of both plays is almost the same. Willy commits suicide as he leaves behind a life full of regrets and mistakes. Hickey is taken to jail for killing his wife and he prays for the electric chair.

Before closing, a soft melody is heard. It represents some pieces of their

past life, conducting a very valuable message. Florida Totojani