How it works
A credit book is like a glass case with a small key. A reader needs a reason, and usually a yes from the person.
A lender may look when you ask for credit. A landlord may look when you ask to rent. A company that bills later may look too, with a yes.
A lender's look leaves a small footprint in the book. Your own look leaves none, and anyone may read their own book.
A curious neighbor, the sweet stall or a peeking friend has no reason and no yes, so no look.
Worked examples
Mr. Fenn the lender
- Mom asks Mr. Fenn for a small account.
- That is a reason: she asked for credit.
- So he may read the book.
- His look leaves a small footprint, and Mom asked only once.
Mr. Cole the landlord
- Mr. Cole wants a renter who will pay on time.
- Mom says yes and signs a slip.
- A reason and a yes, so he may look.
Zed asks to peek
- Zed leans in and asks, Can I peek?
- He has no reason and no yes.
- No reason, no yes, no look.
Mom reads her own book
- Anyone may read their own book.