Throughout the play, "Death of a Salesman" by Arthur Miller, the characters of Willy and Biff have a complex relationship. As the play shifts from past to present time, we see an obvious difference between the relationship of Biff and Willy. We are not aware why this dramatic difference in feelings is eminent between them until the middle of the second act.
             In the present, Willy and Biff argue non-stop and can't agree on anything. The first time in the play where this behavior is shown is on page 21, where a conversation between Biff and Happy takes place. Happy informs Biff that Willy talks about Biff and says how he wants Biff to get settled down and find a real job. This somewhat annoys Biff and he tells Happy that is not the only reason that Willy is unhappy, just to show that Biff isn't the only one who is not living up to Willy's expectations.
             The play then shifts to the past in one of Willy's flashbacks that are seen throughout the play. In the past, Willy and Biff seem to be good friends who look out for each other and help out one another. For example, Biff steals a football from the school locker room in order to practice at home. Happy tells on Biff for stealing the ball, but Willy responds with;
             Willy, stopping the incipient argument, to Happy: Sure, he's gotta practice with a regulation ball, doesn't he? To Biff: Coach'll probably congratulate you on your initiative!
             This shows that Willy will condone Biff's actions, even if they involve stealing. As the conversation continues, Biff tells Willy how much he missed Willy while he was away. They seem to have a good father, son bond here.
             Back in the present time, Biff starts to worry about Willy and wants to know what is wrong with him. Biff has been fading in and out of reality ever since Biff has returned home.
             Biff: What the hell is the matter with him?
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