In Death of a Salesman, by Arthur Miller, the complementary tones vary from sometimes tender, climactic to more ridiculous and harsh. The author's intention for tone helps identify relationships between characters and visualize their feelings about situations and their approach to handling them. The plot of the story focuses on a man more concerned with the material aspects of life than the well-being of others. He is corrupt, arrogant and delusional. Arthur Miller makes it clear that Willy is trying to achieve his "American dream" of success by living vicariously through his son Biff. Willy contradicts himself with the critical tone then changes it to reassurance a few moments later. This is evident in the first act when Willy criticizes his son, saying, “To not meet at thirty-four is a shame!” (Miller. p. 5, line 24). Willy ridicules Biff for his failure by using his wife's suggestion that he find himself and implying that he is shameful and undeserving of their praise. The tone is obviously angry and degrading but then...