Willy's life is one of poetic justice. His ill considered harm caused to people often returns to cause him more hurt than he originally caused. He victimizes Linda by showing her little respect, and he becomes the victim later when she doesn't respect him either. He disappoints Biff by cheating, and Biff in turn disappoints Willy in his life. Willy ignores Happy completely during his childhood, and in turn Happy ignores Willy later in life. Willy treats his neighbors badly, and in turn is treated badly by his boss.

Willy disrespects Linda by walking all over her and interrupting her during conversations, and she in turn disrespects him more subtly by coddling him and lying to him. Willy shows a total lack or respect toward Linda, often running right through her attempts to speak in a conversation:

Linda: I'll make a big breakfast -

Willy: Will you let...