The critic characterized the artist's later work as self-indulgent, noting that it seemed more concerned with expressing personal emotions than communicating meaningfully with an audience.
As used in the text, what does the word "self-indulgent" most nearly mean?
disciplined
brief
excessive
popular
Correct Answer: C
Choice C is the best answer. The passage criticizes work focused on personal expression over audience communication. "Excessive" captures this sense of going beyond appropriate limits.
Choice A is incorrect because "disciplined" contradicts lack of restraint. Choice B is incorrect because "brief" refers to length, not focus. Choice D is incorrect because "popular" contradicts communication failure.