Set 4: Inferences (Advanced)
Explanation
PASSAGE
The novel ends mid-sentence, without resolution. Some readers find this frustrating; others argue the unfinished ending mirrors the protagonist's inability to complete anything in life. The author, in interviews, has refused to say whether the truncation was deliberate or an accident of publication, preferring to let readers decide.
What does the author's response suggest about meaning-making?
Detailed Explanation
This question asks you to draw a logical conclusion from the text. 'Let readers decide' = meaning is collaborative, not dictated by author. A valid inference must be supported by evidence in the passage, even if not stated directly. Look for clues in the text that strongly suggest the answer. Avoid conclusions that require assumptions beyond what's written. Valid inferences are strongly supported by multiple pieces of evidence in the text. Be cautious of choices that go too far beyond what the passage actually states. The best inference is the one most directly supported by textual evidence.
Key Evidence:
• "preferring to let readers decide"
Why others are wrong: A (Readers are invited to decide.), B (Deliberateness is left ambiguous.), C (The author refuses to explain.).