Why do we revere the written word?

If you ever ask me to lend you a book, I'll probably make up some elaborate excuse about why I can't—that is, if I don't flatly refuse. I try to keep my books immaculate and I always treat them gently; I know that many people aren't so pedantic. Thus, rather than risk getting back a damaged book, I just don't lend them out. I understand that books will …