The following text is from a lecture by a celebrated novelist. Many writers obsess over plot structures, outlining every twist before they begin. For me, however, the protagonist is the compass. A sophisticated plot is useless if the reader does not care about the person navigating it. I spend the early stages of drafting simply interviewing my characters, asking them about their fears and secrets. Once I understand their internal geography, the plot emerges naturally from their decisions. I do not push them through a story; they pull the story along with them.
Which choice best states the main purpose of the text?
To explain the author's conviction that character development is the primary driver of storytelling.
To provide a step-by-step guide on how to outline a novel's plot.
To argue that plot-driven novels are commercially superior to character-driven ones.
To describe the specific questions the author asks during character interviews.
Correct Answer: A
Choice A is the best answer. The author contrasts their view with those who obsess over plot, stating, "the protagonist is the compass." The rest of the text explains this philosophy: that knowing the character allows the plot to emerge "naturally."
Choice B is incorrect because the author explicitly states they do not outline every twist ("Many writers... outline... For me, however..."). Choice C is incorrect because the author is discussing artistic process, not commercial success. Choice D is incorrect because "fears and secrets" are mentioned generally, but the text does not list specific interview questions. The focus is on the philosophy, not the specific list.