Why do modern authors continue to reference familiar stories

Santiago said, “a man can be destroyed but not defeated.” in essence he says that a. defeat is likely when you sail alone. b. man can face defeat so it is important to learn from your mistakes and be prepared. c. sharks can always defeat man unless man is well prepared. d. man can be hurt and even destroyed but still have the ability to control how it is viewed.

Can someone “think of a time you overcame a challenge or obstacle. describe the experience in two or three sentences”

Which statement correctly analyzes how the passages work together to create a central idea?