"Books give not wisdom where none was before. But where some is, there reading makes it more"

Elizabeth Hardwick articulates a perspective on the transformative yet conditional nature of reading. She observes that books alone are not a miraculous source of wisdom for those entirely without it; rather, they enhance and expand the inherent intellectual or reflective faculties a person already possesses. The act of reading, while potentially profound, is only as effective as the mind engaging with it.

Hardwick acknowledges that reading is not a passive conduit for indiscriminate enlightenment. The reader's disposition, curiosity, and ability to question are vital for extracting wisdom from books. Simply having access to literature or pouring over texts does not guarantee insight unless the reader approaches with a readiness to understand, synthesize, and challenge their own ideas and experiences. Wisdom, in this sense, is not a commodity transferred from the pages of a book into an empty vessel; it is a process of internal engagement and personal growth.

Her words suggest the cultivation of wisdom is both active and incremental. A person with an incipient sense of discernment, critical thinking, or self-awareness stands to gain much from engaging with literature; the more nuanced their initial insights, the richer their experience becomes as they read further. Books serve as catalysts that nourish and deepen existing wisdom, prompting further questions and encouraging broader perspectives. The implication is that education and self-improvement are cumulative, building upon a foundation laid by thoughtful living and ongoing curiosity.

Moreover, Hardwick's observation underscores the importance of teaching not only literacy but also critical engagement and reflection. Fostering curiosity and independent thought prepares readers to truly benefit from books. In essence, reading is most powerful when coupled with inquisitiveness and a willingness to contemplate the complexities both within and beyond the written word. Thus, while books are invaluable, their real value is realized in partnership with a receptive and active mind.