Final answer:
In the story 'Long Way Down,' the protagonist's motivation for telling his story is his desire for revenge, which is evident as a recurring theme in various literary works that explore deep-seated personal motivations and the resulting actions of characters.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the book Long Way Down, we learn that the protagonist's motivation for telling his story stems from a deep desire for revenge. This theme of motivation for one's actions is a common thread throughout literature, often playing a pivotal role in character development and plot advancement. For instance, in the excerpt from McTeague, the protagonist is driven by environmental forces and natural drives, which push him from respectability to becoming a fugitive murderer. In the narrative shared by Washington, a former slave feels compelled to return to the South to pay for his freedom, reflecting a profound sense of honor and an enduring struggle with the institution of slavery. Moreover, in the tale where a year's suffering culminates in a personal struggle, the character is motivated by a need to confront and accept the truth about the past to safeguard a future with a loved one. Such motivations not only drive the actions of characters but also shape their psychological landscapes and ethical dilemmas.