I personally believe that there is no cause-and-effect relationship between "reading" and the so-called "way out".
To know the answer to this false proposition, we must first understand the meanings of reading and the way out.
Let's start with "reading". Reading can generally be divided into "utilitarian reading" and "interest-based reading". The former tends to be related to the "way out" described in the question, while the latter tends to be related to the "higher-level needs" described in Maslow's hierarchy of needs.
The knowledge and skills taught in schools, as well as books on social sciences and financial intelligence, are examples of "utilitarian reading". On the other hand, books on literature, history, and philosophy are generally considered as "interest-based reading".
The former can be pursued for fame and profit, while the latter can provide personal spiritual fulfillment. The purposes are different, which means the "cause" is different, and therefore the "effect" is also different.
Now let's talk about the "way out". Pursuing education, engaging in business, and entering politics are all behaviors commonly considered as the "way out" by people. The goal is to improve one's social status and pursue "social recognition" based on universal values.
The "way out" and "reading" are not a cause-and-effect relationship, meaning that doing something first does not necessarily lead to something else happening. In other words, simply reading books does not guarantee achieving the so-called "way out". To achieve the so-called "way out", reading is one aspect, but the choice is even more important. Factors such as choice, opportunities, educational background, family background, personal experiences, personal growth rate, personal understanding, social connections, depth of thinking, and level of cognition all come into play. Only when these factors are combined can there be an "effect", but even if all the conditions are met, it may not necessarily lead to the desired outcome.
After experiencing the harsh realities of society, one will generally come to realize that "you reap what you sow" is not always true, and it is even more unlikely that reading alone can lead to the so-called way out as described in the question.
I believe that thoughts should take precedence over actions. Only when thoughts are clear can we make correct judgments, and only with correct judgments can we make the right choices.
Do not bind reading and the way out together for utilitarian purposes, as it is no different from "reading blindly and being bound by books".
The most important significance of reading lies in understanding and mastering "laws" that are not subject to human will. The earlier we understand them and the more laws we master, the more likely we are to live a "fulfilling" life. After gaining this understanding, we can then reevaluate whether the way out we desire at that time is truly an "exit".