Was the debate mostly about why classics still matter today? I mean, sometimes you need that push to see how much stuff in old books connects to now. Idk, maybe it's just me but hearing others argue for them can totally flip your view.

Store-bought? As a backup? That's like bringing a microwave dinner to a barbecue you're hosting. The whole point is to share what you made, not hide it behind a can of pre-ground stuff. If they don't like your roast, they can just drink tea or water. Bringing the generic coffee just says you don't believe in your own work.