Here's my rule: You always want to pay cash for your own books, because if they look at the name on the credit card and then they look at the name on the book jacket, then there's this look of such profound sympathy for you that you had to resort to this. It really is withering.

Summary

This quote emphasizes the idea of preserving one's dignity by paying cash for one's own books. By doing so, the transaction becomes discreet, avoiding any potential judgment or pity from others. The mention of the "look of profound sympathy" reflects how societal perception can belittle individuals for resorting to financial alternatives, undermining their sense of self-worth. Thus, the quote suggests that paying cash allows one to maintain their pride and avoid the withering glare of judgment cast upon those who rely on other payment methods.