In Nick Hornby's "A Long Way Down," the character reflects on his feelings towards books, particularly in relation to Jen, who finds solace in them. He admires her love for reading, which provides her comfort and understanding, especially during difficult times. However, he harbors a sense of fear and unease regarding literature, questioning what secrets and revelations these books hold.

He worries about the moments when Jen turns to books instead of the people around her, including friends and family. This highlights a contrast between their experiences—while books serve as a refuge for her, they conjure feelings of anxiety for him, emphasizing the different ways individuals cope with their struggles.