In the quote from Annie Dillard's "The Living," the act of reading is portrayed as both essential for life and a means of escape. The comparison of reading to breathing highlights its importance in nourishing the mind and spirit, suggesting that books are fundamental for enriching one's existence. They provide knowledge, comfort, and an avenue for personal growth.

Conversely, the reference to breathing ether introduces a darker aspect of reading, implying that it can also serve as an escape from reality, akin to losing oneself in dreams or thoughts. This duality captures the profound relationship between readers and literature, emphasizing how books can be a source of both vitality and a retreat from life's difficulties.