Folding, Writing and Cracking

Yes, I am completely guilty of all these things (though only in books I own).

Admission one: I fold over the corners of pages - top corner for where I'm up to, bottom corner for memorable quotes. Yes, I do own bookmarks. But if one doesn't fall into my outstretched hand, I fold.
Admission two: I write on my books - though in pencil, and only when inspired. Perhaps there is some kind of psychological reason about not wanting to make a permanent mark...?
Admission three: I crack the spines - this is practically a rite of passage for books I own. The only books I don't do this to are those that are signed by the author, which I try to keep as pristine as possible (on the slim chance that they might be valuable - to someone other than me - one day).

I know some people get upset about this. To me, it's part of owning a book - and not just owning it, but possessing it and making it mine in some irrevocable way. I get edgy when people lend me their pristine books. There are some people you just know aren't spine crackers. The binding could be so tight it almost can't be prised open, and some poor reader will have their face practically glued to the side of the book to see the text on the other page. People please - reading is supposed to be about enjoyment, not eye strain.

I was browsing the Levenger website (yes, again!) when I found two great articles about marking books, Writing in Books and How to Leave Masterly Marginalia. Of course they are a commercial site, so they are very diplomatic about it, but it makes for great reading. I do believe in the value of "marginalia" - I have been reading (with grim fascination) The Naked Lunch and the inside cover has reproduced what I take to be part of the original. It's like a tiny glipse into the author's psyche.

Where's my 3B pencil gone…?