Step 1: Understand the key phrase.
The phrase "deftly etched characters" means characters that are skillfully, carefully, and expertly drawn or created. "Deftly" implies skill and precision in execution.
Step 2: Locate the relevant information in the passage.
The passage states: "He composed several truly original 'story poems' in folk refrain and diction and also wrote a sprawling novel Thillana Mohanambal with dozens of very deftly etched characters."
Step 3: Interpret the meaning.
Creating "dozens" of well-crafted characters in a novel requires considerable literary skill, imagination, and understanding of human nature. It is not an easy task.
Step 4: Analysis of each option.
- (A) Careless in writing: Incorrect. "Deftly etched" suggests care and precision, not carelessness.
- (B) Skillful in character creation: Correct.} "Deftly etched" directly implies skillfulness in creating characters.
- (C) Only interested in films: Incorrect. His literary achievements, including this novel, show his interest in literature too.
- (D) A slow writer: Incorrect. The passage gives no information about his writing speed; it only comments on the quality.
Step 5: Conclusion.
The phrase "deftly etched characters" is a compliment to Subbu's literary talent. It shows he was highly skilled at creating vivid, memorable, and well-developed characters in his writing.
Final Answer:} (B) Skillful in character creation