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Lost Dreams A common idea used throughout literature is the issue of freedom of the individual in opposition to the controlling pressures of society. Willy Loman, the main character in Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman, epitomizes this type of person; one who looks to his peers and co-salesmen as lesser individuals. Not only is Willy competitive and overbearing, but he seeks after an ideal that is not in his grasp: becoming the greatest salesman ever. Determined to make money, Willy becomes uncontrollable and somewhat insane. Through his dialogue and actions, Willy portrays a character of great insecurity, persistence, and unknown identity. From the very beginning of life, Willy Loman experiences problems with popularity and his personality. As a result, he is tied to the bottom of the business world as an unsuccessful salesman. Willy believes that being well-liked and having a personal attractiveness, together, can bring success, money, and many friends. Ironically, Willy does not have many friends and many people do not like him. With that in mind, Willy thinks that doors will open and problems will disappear on their own. Willy’s life as a salesman is built on a dream that he witnesses as a child.