Reading was like an addiction; I read while I ate, on the train, in bed until late at night, in school, where I'd keep the book hidden so I could read during class. Before long I bought a small stereo and spent all my time in my room, listening to jazz records. But I had almost no desire to talk to anyone about the experience I gained through books and music. I felt happy just being me and no one else. In that sense I could be called a stack-up loner.
The narrator describes their reading habits as an addiction, dedicating every moment possible to enjoying books. They read in various situations, such as while eating, on public transport, and even secretly during school hours. This intense commitment to literature leads them to invest in a small stereo to immerse themselves in jazz music, further isolating them in their personal world of creativity and exploration.
Despite gaining enriching experiences from books and music, the individual expresses little desire to share these joys with others, preferring solitude and the comfort of their own company. This self-reflection reveals a sense of contentment in being alone, identifying themselves as a "stack-up loner," which signifies a deep personal connection to their interests without the need for external validation or interaction.
