On Definition A and Definition B

The term “success” has been thrown about dozens of times in class discussions this past week and yet, “success” is a highly relative term. If I may use a rhetorical example I observed in countless of last year’s Senior Speeches: according to Merriam Webster dictionary, the term “success” can mean either “a favorable or desired outcome” or “the attainment of wealth, favor, or eminence.” Upon first glance, it seems obvious that neither of these definitions can be seen within the Loman family. And yet, on closer inspection, perhaps “success” *can* be found.

By the end of the play, Biff has come to a stunning realization, a final disillusionment. He finally frees himself from the mesh of lies that have supported his father and his household. In a way, this could certainly be seen as “a favorable or desired outcome.” So, perhaps, in his own way, Biff *has,* if inadvertently, stumbled upon success. Sure, he may not look upon this disillusionment as true success, but it is without a doubt one of the single greatest moments of his young life. For, now that he has stumbled upon this hidden success, Biff is now free to work toward true happiness, the ultimate “favorable or desired outcome.”

What is odd, though, is how limiting the second definition of “success” actually is. Can not one achieve success without “the attainment of wealth, favor, or eminence?” For some, of course, the answer is “no.” In my personal opinion, the definition of “success” is unique for each individual person. Now, I am usually not one to go against the dictionary, however, in this instance, I believe it to be necessary. Was becoming a prominent salesman truly the key to “success” in Willy’s life? Probably not. I can just as easily see the man killing himself as a “successful” CEO. His life would still be empty. His life would still be devoid of that which would have given him the true “favorable or desired outcome:” happiness for himself and his two sons. Would it be possible for Willy *ever* to achieve full “success?” Again, probably not. He is too set in his ways and his dreams. However, his boys still have that opportunity, and Biff seems well on his way.

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