This is strange because, as far as the reader knows, they are struggling financially, so it doesn't make sense that he doesn't want her to mend his socks. Only later, when Biff catches Willy with another woman and gives her some socks, does it become clear why the socks cause Willy distress. When Biff witnesses this, he says, "You... you gave her Mommy's socks!" He then proceeds to call his father a fake and leaves extremely upset. From that moment on, the socks become a symbol of infidelity and every time he sees his wife mending them it reminds him of his betrayal. "Willy can't get rid of the ghost of the silk stockings, a symbol of his infidelity and the cause of Biff's distrust." (Ardolino) This mistake had important consequences for Willy Loman. Linda doesn't realize she's been cheated on, so as far as she knows, the only reason Willy doesn't want her to darn his socks is for the sake of his pride and desire to provide for her needs.