by Sidney Hall Jr.
This past weekend, we hung out our shingle at the Made in NH Expo, an event that attracts thousands of visitors. Our brightly-colored table stood next to a caramel manufacturer that offered free samples. We watched people's eyes refocus as they approached us and got in line for the caramels next door.
We wondered how we could compete. Should we put out little cups with a few tempting words in them? People stopped at our table and were curious and terrific. We sold books. But we couldn't help wondering whether the joy of owning books is still the same these days. The number of proud bookowners has dwindled in an age of other media and other distractions.
Personally, I have so many books insulating my house that I know I will never be able to read them all. But what joy they bring, just being there! The thought that the right words are lingering, lying in wait to comfort me just when I need them, is endlessly satisfying. I feel a pride of possession like with no other object.
Why wouldn't everyone want to have hundreds or even thousands of books in their house? And give them away to friends when they need room for more? It seems almost a primal pleasure to be surrounded by books.
Media come and go, and it's fine that they do. I predict that books will outlast them all. The joy of owning a book is greater than the joy of melting a caramel in your mouth. It's a joy that will last. I do recommend those caramels next door though.
