In her book "I Love Everybody," Laurie Notaro draws a compelling analogy between a love for books and the fondness an inmate might have for homemade tattoos. This comparison highlights a deep passion and attachment, suggesting that books serve as personal and significant elements in one's life, much like tattoos are for those in prison. Such a connection implies that both are cherished objects, often embodying personal stories, experiences, and emotions.
Notaro's statement reflects an insatiable desire for literature, indicating that books fill a profound need for knowledge, entertainment, and escape. Just as incarceration might lead individuals to find comfort and expression in body art, a love for reading offers solace and a sense of belonging. The metaphor ultimately celebrates the power of books to enrich life and the human experience.