No, Harry, not an ogre, that's a misconception.

No again, (though I accept you meant it satirically), I've spent more than I could afford, really, on books throughout my life and can only be glad of the fact that I've lived in places with public libraries that have given me outstanding access to ideas and thought that I could never have afforded otherwise.

I don't know whether to trust that what you say is a truth for you but I have to trust because, as Hemingway said, and I paraphrase: "The way to know whether someone is trustworthy is to trust them."

Of course, everyone has to "sustain themselves", however buying a "nice bottle of wine each month" is not necessary sustenance but rather, self indulgence.

'Balance' is a word or term, as are so many today, ubiquitously used far too casually and often inappropriately. This is not least the case because true "balance" is impossible.

Monetary reward or, to the reader, cost, Is not at all about "balance." The recognition of "time, effor and dedication" is not or ought not to be about money. Indeed, materialism, wealth or the desire for it is at the heart of much of the worst of human behaviour and accentuated deprivation of those who have little or nothing.

So rather than asserting your difference and disingenuously labelling me as an ogre in regard to you, perhaps some humility and willingness not to retaliate but rather to rationalise and be prepared to modify your view would be better.

Perhaps I was too abrupt or strong, even unjust in my criticism and, if so, I apologise. However, I do consider that my argument is sound and that platitudes or cliche´s do not defeat it.

Take care. Stay safe.

r.