The narrator reflects on their mother’s disdain for vintage books, preferring new ones instead. Despite the physical wear of the old hardcovers, these books carry a profound sense of history and connection to previous readers. Each volume represents a life once intertwined with its pages, revealing that these stories were cherished by someone else who experienced them deeply.

This connection to the past is exemplified by the distinct scent of old books, which evokes memories and emotions tied to their former readers. The narrator finds beauty in these worn copies, underscoring the idea that a book is not just a collection of words but a vessel of shared experiences over time.