1. Selective Memory: Linda tends to remember only the positive aspects of their past, overlooking or minimizing the difficult moments. She focuses on the good times they shared as a family and the potential for success that Willy once had.
2. Imaginative Dialogues: Linda often engages in imaginary conversations with Willy, expressing her thoughts, concerns, and wishes. She shares her hopes and dreams for their sons and the family's future, even when Willy is not physically present.
3. Daydreams and Fantasies: Linda indulges in daydreams and fantasies to cope with the challenges they face. She envisions a better future where Willy is successful, the boys are well-off, and their financial problems are resolved.
4. Idealizing the Past: Linda idealizes their earlier days when Willy was a promising young man and the family was more united. She longs for a return to those times and believes that if they could recapture that past, their present difficulties would disappear.
5. Denial of Willy's Flaws: Linda struggles to acknowledge Willy's flaws and weaknesses, instead choosing to see him as the successful and admirable man he once was. She defends him against Biff's criticisms and refuses to recognize the impact of Willy's actions on their family.
By immersing herself in these stories and fantasies, Linda finds a temporary escape from the harsh realities of their lives. However, her tendency to avoid confronting the truth ultimately exacerbates the problems that the Loman family faces.