The Willy Lomans of the World

Linda Loman: I don't say he's a great man. Willy Loman never made a lot of money; his name was never in the paper; he's not the finest character that ever lived. But he's a human being, and a terrible thing is happening to him. So attention must be paid. He's not to be allowed to fall into his grave like an old dog. Attention, attention, must be finally paid to such a person.

~ From Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman

I've come to appreciate this play, if not enjoy it (I have yet to see a production, that could make a huge difference). I love the theme of appreciating the Willy Lomans of this world. Especially in a world when the media proclaims every little detail of celebrities' lives - the time we spend reading about the death of Heath Ledger could be spent in speaking to the neighbor across street. The common ground of humanity has a such a strong claim on us. We just need our eyes opened to that fact.