In "The Invention of Wings" by Sue Monk Kidd, the narrative explores the complexities of slavery and the profound impact of education on slaves. One significant theme is how knowledge, particularly the ability to read, can empower enslaved individuals, making them a perceived threat to the institution of slavery itself. This reality highlights the fear that slaveholders had regarding educated slaves, as literacy could lead to the pursuit of freedom and rebellion. The quote reflects the harsh attitudes of the time, illustrating the belief that allowing slaves to learn to read poses dangers to the status quo. Slaves gaining education was seen as a challenge to their subjugation, signifying not only personal growth but also the potential for collective uprising. This underscores the struggles faced by those denied basic rights and the transformative power that knowledge can wield in the fight for freedom.