On Losing my Likability

There is no one, in the history of anyone in the world, who has stood up for what they believed in and remained liked by everyone.

In sophomore English class I read Death of Salesman by Arthur Miller and my teacher explained that when Miller referred to Willy Loman (the main character) as “well liked”- it was a critique, not a compliment. His life was an illusion propped up by phony people and the success that he longed for never came.

Apparently, it’s not just me and Arthur Miller who wrangle with the issue of being “well liked”- being agreeable and likable is important but complicated.