The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about influential figures, including famous writers. This topic is particularly common in Part 2 and Part 3 of the speaking exam. Being prepared to discuss a writer you admire can significantly boost your confidence and performance. Let’s explore how to excel in this task.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, you may encounter general questions about reading and writing. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:
Q: Do you enjoy reading books?
A: Absolutely, I’m quite passionate about reading. I find it to be an incredibly enriching experience that not only broadens my horizons but also allows me to escape into different worlds. I particularly enjoy novels that challenge my perspective and non-fiction books that delve into complex topics. Reading has become an integral part of my daily routine, and I always try to squeeze in at least an hour of reading before bed.
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card related to describing a famous writer:
Describe a famous writer you admire
You should say:
- Who this writer is
- What kind of books they write
- How you first learned about this writer
- And explain why you admire this writer
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
I’d like to talk about George Orwell, a British writer whom I deeply admire. Orwell is best known for his dystopian novels, particularly “1984” and “Animal Farm,” which are biting critiques of totalitarianism and social injustice.
I first encountered Orwell’s work during my high school years when “Animal Farm” was part of our curriculum. The allegorical nature of the story immediately captivated me, and I was struck by how Orwell could convey such profound political ideas through a seemingly simple tale about farm animals.
What I admire most about Orwell is his unwavering commitment to truth and his ability to articulate complex societal issues in accessible language. His essays, such as “Politics and the English Language,” demonstrate his mastery of clear, precise prose. Orwell’s writing style is devoid of unnecessary ornament, yet it’s incredibly powerful in its simplicity.
Moreover, I’m in awe of Orwell’s prescience. Many of the concepts he wrote about in “1984,” such as widespread surveillance and the manipulation of truth, have become eerily relevant in our modern, digital age. This foresight speaks to his deep understanding of human nature and power dynamics.
Orwell’s influence extends far beyond literature. His work has shaped political discourse and given us a vocabulary to discuss authoritarian tendencies in society. Terms like “Orwellian” and “Big Brother” have entered common parlance, testifying to the enduring impact of his ideas.
In essence, I admire Orwell not just for his literary prowess, but for his role as a social critic and his courage in speaking truth to power. His works continue to resonate and remain relevant, serving as a warning and a call to vigilance in protecting our freedoms.
Follow-up Questions:
Q: How has this writer influenced your own writing or thinking?
A: Orwell’s work has had a profound impact on my critical thinking skills. His emphasis on clarity in writing has inspired me to strive for precision in my own communication. Moreover, reading his works has made me more aware of the subtle ways language can be manipulated for political purposes. I now approach media and political rhetoric with a more discerning eye, always questioning the underlying motivations and potential biases.
Q: Do you think writers have a responsibility to address social issues in their work?
A: While I believe writers should have the freedom to choose their subjects, I think those who tackle social issues can play a crucial role in shaping public discourse. Writers like Orwell demonstrate the power of literature to illuminate societal problems and inspire change. However, it’s equally important for writers to approach such topics with nuance and depth, avoiding simplistic or preachy narratives. Ultimately, the most impactful social commentary in literature often comes from stories that are compelling in their own right, with the social messages woven seamlessly into the narrative.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Q: How do you think technology has changed the way we consume literature?
A: (Band 8-9) Technology has revolutionized our access to and engagement with literature in myriad ways. E-readers and audiobooks have made literature more portable and accessible, allowing people to carry entire libraries in their pockets. This has democratized access to books, especially in areas where physical bookstores are scarce.
Moreover, the rise of self-publishing platforms has opened up new avenues for writers to reach audiences directly, bypassing traditional gatekeepers. This has led to a more diverse literary landscape, with niche genres and underrepresented voices finding their readership.
However, this digital shift also presents challenges. The abundance of content can lead to shorter attention spans and a tendency to skim rather than deep read. Additionally, algorithms on reading platforms might create echo chambers, potentially limiting our exposure to diverse perspectives.
Despite these concerns, I believe the overall impact is positive. Technology has fostered global literary communities, enabling readers to discuss books across geographical boundaries. It has also given rise to new forms of storytelling, such as interactive fiction and multimedia narratives, expanding the very definition of literature.
Q: In your opinion, what makes a writer truly great?
A: (Band 8-9) The hallmarks of a truly great writer are multifaceted and often subjective, but I believe there are several key qualities that distinguish exceptional authors.
Firstly, great writers possess an extraordinary command of language. They have the ability to craft prose that is not only technically proficient but also evocative and resonant. Their words can paint vivid pictures in the reader’s mind and elicit strong emotional responses.
Secondly, truly great writers offer unique insights into the human condition. They delve deep into the complexities of human nature, exploring universal themes in ways that are both profound and relatable. Their works often challenge our preconceptions and encourage us to see the world from new perspectives.
Another crucial aspect is originality. Great writers bring fresh ideas or innovative approaches to their craft, whether through groundbreaking narrative techniques, unconventional subject matter, or novel stylistic choices.
Moreover, the best writers demonstrate a deep understanding of their chosen subjects. This could manifest as meticulous research in historical fiction or astute observations of social dynamics in contemporary literature.
Lastly, I believe truly great writers have a certain timelessness to their work. Their themes and ideas remain relevant across generations, speaking to fundamental human experiences and societal issues that transcend their immediate context.
In essence, a truly great writer combines technical skill, profound insight, originality, subject expertise, and enduring relevance to create works that not only entertain but also enlighten and transform their readers.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
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Biting critique /ˈbaɪtɪŋ krɪˈtiːk/ (noun phrase): A sharp, severe criticism.
Example: Orwell’s “Animal Farm” is a biting critique of totalitarian regimes. -
Allegorical /ˌæləˈɡɒrɪkəl/ (adjective): Containing a moral or political meaning behind a literal story.
Example: The allegorical nature of “Animal Farm” allows it to convey complex political ideas through a simple story. -
Prescience /ˈpresiəns/ (noun): The ability to foresee future events.
Example: Orwell’s prescience is evident in how accurately “1984” predicted certain aspects of modern society. -
To speak truth to power (idiom): To confront those in authority with the truth, especially when it’s uncomfortable.
Example: Throughout his career, Orwell was known for speaking truth to power through his writing. -
To resonate /ˈrezəneɪt/ (verb): To evoke a strong, lasting response.
Example: Orwell’s themes continue to resonate with readers today, decades after they were written.
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing famous writers:
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Prepare a range of vocabulary related to literature and writing. This includes terms for different genres, writing styles, and literary devices.
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Practice speaking about books and authors you’re familiar with. Be ready to discuss not just the plot, but themes, writing style, and personal impact.
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Develop your critical thinking skills. Be prepared to analyze and express opinions on the role of literature in society.
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Work on your fluency by regularly discussing books and writers with others or recording yourself speaking on these topics.
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Stay informed about current literary trends and debates to demonstrate your engagement with the subject.
Remember, the key to a high score is not just what you say, but how you say it. Aim for fluency, coherence, and a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures in your responses.
For more practice on describing influential figures, you might find it helpful to explore topics like describing a famous author from your country whose work you enjoy or describing a famous poet from your country. These exercises can help you develop a broader vocabulary and more nuanced perspectives on literary figures.