"Books are like a mirror. If an ass looks in, you can't expect an angel to look out"

The quote by B.C. Forbes, "Books resemble a mirror. If an ass searches in, you can't expect an angel to watch out", offers an extensive commentary on the relationship in between a reader and the text. The contrast of books to a mirror suggests that what a person takes away from reading is largely a reflection of what they bring to it. If somebody approaches a book with restricted understanding, bias, or closed-mindedness-- represented here by the term "ass", indicating a fool or a persistent, oblivious person-- they can not expect extensive insights or knowledge-- represented by the "angel"-- to emerge from their reading experience.

This quote underscores the importance of a reader's mindset and perspective. A book, just like a mirror, does not inherently change the individual engaging with it; rather, it shows back the reader's prejudgments and intellectual limitations. A person who approaches books arrogantly, disinterestedly, or without openness can miss out on much deeper meanings, subtleties, and the transformative power of literature.

Books have the possible to broaden understanding, difficulty existing beliefs, and influence modification, however this potential is utilized only if the reader is responsive. It promotes the idea of active and reflective reading: one must engage with literature attentively and with a determination to question oneself. This indicates being open to brand-new and tough concepts, reflecting on personal biases, and being prepared to discover and grow.

At another level, the quote can also be seen as a critique of those who blame books or other types of education for their lack of advancement or enlightenment. It suggests that individual growth is a cooperative undertaking between the reader and text. Intelligence, sensitivity, and openness from the reader are vital parts for obtaining real wisdom and understanding from books. Hence, literature needs an "angelic" or informed method for its treasures to be completely appreciated and integrated into one's life.