I often have to purchase books (mostly technical books), out of necessity, out of my own pocket.

"Especially when I am out of column material, I can't pretend anymore"

It is like that.

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Ebata: "So, I don't see much difference between those who pay for online games and those who buy technical books.

Wife: "Really?"

Ebata: "I think we share the same point of 'doing what I love' and also 'doing what others cannot value' in the eyes of others."

Wife: "I would get 'mad' if you spend money for a online game, but with books, I think that I don't"

Ebata: "I agree, however I just can't logically explain the difference between the two."

Wife: "Reward for investment?"

Ebata: "(The argument is) weak. Even in online games, there is a reward of 'it makes me enjoy'."

Wife: "Because couples can't share 'the enjoy'?"

Ebata: "Sure, we can share books - but it is still "weak".

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So, this is a bit of a hypothetical.

'When I buy books, I'm usually mentally driven, pale, and don't look happy at all.'

I think that this may be one of the reasons.