Read the cloze passage and answer the following questions:
The life of a writer is often romanticized as a journey _____(3) inspiration, creativity, and quiet reflection. While moments of artistic brilliance do exist, the reality is far more (1) arduous than it appears. Writers spend countless hours drafting, revising, and battling self-doubt. The blank page can be both an open canvas and an intimidating void, demanding discipline as much as imagination.
A writer's routine _____(4) greatly. Some work in the early hours of the morning, when the world is still, while others find their rhythm late at night. Many rely on rituals such as a specific desk, a cup of tea, or a walk in the park to spark their creativity. However, inspiration alone is rarely enough; persistence is the real driving force behind completed works.
The profession also comes with emotional highs and lows. The joy of finishing a manuscript or receiving praise from readers is often tempered by the sting of rejection letters or critical reviews. Still, writers persevere, fuelled by the belief that _____(5) words can inform, entertain, or even change lives.
For many, writing is not merely a career but (2) a calling a lifelong pursuit that shapes the way they see and interact with the world. It is a path that demands patience, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to the craft.
The phrase "calling" most nearly means:
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Correct Answer: A strong inner urge to pursue a particular career or purpose
Explanation
• In the context of occupations and life goals, a calling refers to a strong vocation, deep passion, or inner feeling that drives someone toward a particular line of work or life purpose.
• The passage states that for many writers, writing is "not merely a career but a calling a lifelong pursuit," highlighting an internal passion and commitment rather than an ordinary job or literal act of shouting/telephoning.
Example: She felt teaching was not just a profession, but a true calling to inspire young minds.