In most cases it is the oldest son that is being favored while the younger son is ignored (Floyd). Typically the father doesn't even realize what is happening. He simply gets too caught up in the successes of his eldest son and may even try to live out his life through his son's experiences. Because Willy has dreams of grandeur for Biff, Miller shows how Happy is overlooked. Throughout the novel, Willy makes references to how wonderful Biff is. ". . . You got greatness in you, Biff. . . You got all kinds of greatness" (Miller 1362). Happy, however, is barely talked to or encouraged, and is frequently ignored when he speaks. "I"m losing weight, you notice, Pop?" Happy asked of his father, but Willy's response was not an answer to the questions "Jumping rope is good too." He responded and then quickly went back to biff (Miller 1312). This kind of favoritism has a profound effect on a child. In order to be acknowledged by his father, Happy believes that he must become Willy's version of a success by acquiring wealth and being popular. He convinces himself that this is the only way he"ll ever be truly happy. In the end though, he realizes that he is not happy. "But then, it's what I always wanted. My own apartment, a car, and plenty of women. And still, goddammit, I"m lonely" (Miller 1308). Happy has been living his entire life in a way that he believes will bring him attention from his father, yet he becomes more miserable than if he had gone his own way. .
When a father chooses to look favorably upon one son over another, problems occur in the father-son relationship as well as in the son's life. Within a father-son relationship, it is the responsibility of the father to provide sound values and leadership for his sons (Jones). In most families, the sons look to their father as their role model and a hero. It is in the father's best interest to use this opportunity to instill values that will allow his sons to become responsible individuals (Floyd).
