Really interesting, and nicely written. I'm conflicted about this-- my parents owned a bookstore and I was (and am) an avid and voracious reader. Growing up, perhaps surprisingly, the one thing we didn't horde was books. I think it's because we had an unlimited supply at our fingertips, so they pretty much left the house as quickly as they came in. Donated to used bookstores and libraries. Now that I actually pay for my own books, I do have a tendency to pick up appealing titles whenever I see them for cheap, "just in case". I don't have a lot of space where I live at the moment, though...so it gets out of hand quickly! In general, I think the beauty of having books is being able to give them to people. If I've already read it, I only really keep the rare book which touches me so deeply I'll re-read it (like you, that isn't many) or if I can think of someone who might enjoy it....otherwise, it's off to the charity shop or the library! Speaking of which, libraries are another great reason not to own too many books. If you live somewhere where they're decently stocked, and if you don't it's a damn shame!

Thanks again for the think, great post.