Are you going to look at the 7th edition to answer your questions, or are you going to stay with the 6th edition? I just ordered the 6th edition because I have read some bad things about the 7th.
Me think Homer would not be happy with your decision. For somewhere I heard or read that Homer though all previous editions should be put away when the new one came out. Reason, the new edition has been updated, corrected where needed and information added.
I don't have the 1st edition but I am told that if you look at that one and then say the 4th edition, you would be missing a lot if you solely relied on the 1st edition.
Now some have said that some of the stuff that got cut to make room for the updates is a loss for all of us. So in that case it may be wise to note what has been loss on the cutting room floor as it may be worthy of some personal notes to assist you in your quest.
But would Homer be happy with the way the changes have been made in the 7th. There are some mistakes, from my understanding. I was hoping to get more input.
A big elastic band will hold it together. I have a 4th edition that is like that, broken binder. Won't part with it, however. It is signed by Mr. Kelley.