How we cite our quotes: Citations follow this format: (Act.Scene.Line). Every time a character talks counts as one line, even if what they say turns into a long monologue.
Quote #7
WALTER
You wouldn’t understand yet, son, but your daddy’s gonna make a transaction…a business transaction that’s going to change our lives…That’s how come one day when you ‘bout seventeen years old I’ll come home and I’ll be pretty tired, you know what I mean, after a day of conferences and secretaries getting things wrong the way they do…’cause an executive’s life is hell, man – (The more he talks the farther away he gets) (2.2.130)
Walter believes that the liquor store investment is a good idea. He's convinced that his use for the money will have a positive effect on the family, although his ambitions only disillusion him from doubting Willy.
Quote #8
BOBO (Standing over him helplessly)
I’m sorry, Walter… (Only WALTER’S sobs reply. BOBO puts on his hat) I had my life staked on this deal, too… (He exits) (2.3.183)
Walter and Bobo both changed the course of their families' future by trusting Willy with their money. This was bad decision on both of their parts and both of their families will suffer as a result.
Quote #9
WALTER
Don’t cry, mama. Understand. That white man is going to walk in that door able to write checks for more money than we ever had. It’s important to him and I’m going to help him…I’m going to put on the show, Mama. (3.1.96)
Walter explains to Lena that he is going to play according to a racist person's rules in order to earn the family money. This choice is a real blow to his mother.