In Margaret Atwood's "The Handmaid's Tale," the quote reflects a significant theme regarding the control of knowledge and education in society. The statement suggests that the ability to read empowers individuals, which can lead to questioning authority and seeking freedom. This highlights the oppressive regime's anxiety about literacy and its potential to incite rebellion among citizens.

Furthermore, the quote indicates how the regime aims to maintain power by restricting access to education. By discouraging reading, they aim to limit the potential for dissent and ensure compliance. This underscores the broader message of the narrative, emphasizing the importance of knowledge in the struggle for autonomy and the dangers of a society that deprives individuals of education and self-awareness.