Death of a Salesman - Question 6

The theatrical component of music is used to contribute to Death of a Salesman. The playwright indicates Willy's flashbacks or hallucinations through this physical effect given in the stage directions.

"Willy: I'm getting awfully tired, Ben. (Ben's music is heard. Ben looks around at everything.)

Charley: Good, keep playing; you'll sleep better. Did you call me Ben?

...

Ben: His flute. He played the flute

Willy: Sure, the flute, that's right! (New music is heard, a high, rollicking tune.)

(pages 1568,1571)

The music takes Willy back to previous times in his life and serve as a reminder of his past. The music also helps to signal to the reader/audience when these flashbacks or hallucinations are occurring throughout the play. Without this cue, the play would be more difficult to follow along with.