Why is Amir surprised when Baba says he will become a 'great' writer?

• A. Baba disapproves of writing and says Amir's degree will be useless.
• B. Baba wants him to become a doctor.
• C. Baba believes writing will bring him wealth.
• D. Baba tells him to pursue writing only as a hobby.

Answer: (A)

The question tests the tension between Amir’s dream of writing and Baba’s practical expectations for a son. Amir is surprised by Baba’s declaration that he will become a “great” writer because Baba has long treated writing as an uncertain path and has emphasized usefulness and security in a career.

In the story, Baba’s view is that a writer won’t provide a stable future or honor in the sense his culture and family prize. When Baba suggests writing could make Amir great, it clashes with his usual stance that a useful, respectable profession—like medicine—holds true value. That clash is what shocks Amir: the father who has been blunt about practical success suddenly speaks as if Amir’s talent could lead to lasting, substantial achievement.

So the best answer captures Baba’s disapproval of turning to writing as a career and the implication that Amir’s degree in writing wouldn’t be considered practical or secure. The other options miss that exact dynamic: Baba’s traditional push toward a stable profession is the root of the surprise, rather than an endorsement of wealth from writing, treating writing only as a hobby, or a straightforward desire for Amir to become a doctor in a way that fully explains the moment.