"Hard work makes easy reading or, at least, easier reading"

M. H. Abrams is suggesting that effort can make reading simpler. He is implying that if you put in the effort to comprehend a text, it will become simpler to understand. This is because when you put in the effort to understand a text, you are most likely to keep in mind the information and have the ability to recall it more easily. This is particularly true when it concerns tough texts, as the more effort you put in, the much easier it will be to understand. By putting in the effort, you are most likely to be able to comprehend the text and make it easier to check out. This quote is a reminder that effort pays off and that if you put in the effort, you will be rewarded with simpler reading.