A symbol is an item that is used to represent something other than the direct meaning of that thing. In the play, Death of a Salesman, written by Arthur Miller, the story incorporates many symbols to make the reader think more deeply about the story. The symbols in the story allow the reader to take part in the action of the story and think about what certain items may mean to the story. Things being broken or falling apart is directly related to Willy's inability to make enough money for the family.
The first sequence of things breaking down is in the first act when Willy comes home after his sales trip. Linda and Willy are calculating their income and expenses, and Linda tells Willy about the malfunctioning appliances that had to be paid for. Linda says, "Well, the fan belt broke, so it was a dollar eighty (1.35)." This frustrates Willy because it makes him realize that he can't make enough money to provide for all the things his family needs. Later in the act, the breaking down of appliances is mentioned again. Linda states, "Well, there's ninety-six for the washing machine. And for the vacuum cleaner there's three and a half due on the fifteenth (1.36)." Then, she says, "To fix the hot water it cost ninety-seven fifty (1.57)." All of these incidents reminded Willy of his inability to provide for the family.
The Loman family often used things breaking down as an excuse for Willy's inability to work and pay for his family. This is first evident when Linda says, "Oh, maybe it was the steering again. I don't think Angelo knows the Studebaker (1.13)." This was said in response to Willy almost getting into another car crash. Instead of understanding that Willy is getting old and is unable to provide for the family anymore, they made excuses for why things, like the crash, are happening. This is reinforced when Charley asks Willy why he is home from work, and Willy responds with, "A little trouble with the car (1.