Warb,
I don't know how to put all this so it makes sense to you. The 1977 film got me here. It was my be all, end all for decades. I think it's a fantastic film. I own it, I know it backwards & forwards, it's the only one of the six I have any interest in. I will be first in line to purchase future versions of it, provided they are 1977 theatrical.
That said; I now prefer to read the Daley novels or listen to NPR over the 1977 film. I just don't feel the magic I did for so many years. All that came after it (from Lucas) has tainted it for me. Plus, I want more than that one story. Lucas never did that. Brian Daley did. Daley even gave me more depth in Star Wars just by writing the NPR version. He gave me hours more of the story I love.
So that I'm clear on this - when I say prefer, I mean just that - prefer - not in place of forever because the other stuff is shit. I do not mean Star Wars77 is bad, the story is no good, the OOT isn't worth saving, etc, etc.
Now, if you'll excuse me, the Giants are playing in a few hours. I have to get home, change into my comfortable clothes, pour a glass of wine and relax (as best I can) to some championship baseball.