6
Answer: BSet 1: Inferences (Advanced)
Explanation
PASSAGE
The author writes in an essay that her novel has 'no political agenda.' Critics, however, point to the book's sympathetic portrayal of marginalized communities and its critique of institutional power as inherently political. The disagreement raises questions about whether any representation can be truly apolitical.
What tension does the passage identify?
A. Authors have complete control over how their work is interpreted.
B. Authorial declarations of apolitical intent may conflict with how texts function socially.✓ Correct
C. Critics always agree with authors about their work.
D. Representation never has political implications.
Detailed Explanation
Author says 'no political agenda'; critics see political content = intent vs. social function.
Key Evidence:
• "no political agenda"
• "critics point to... inherently political"
Why others are wrong: A (Critics interpret differently than the author.), C (There's 'disagreement.'), D (Critics see the work as political.).