Final answer:
The central idea of the text is the significance of Amelia Earhart's mental state and her contributions to aviation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The central idea of the text is the significance of Amelia Earhart's mental state and her contributions to aviation. The comparison between a ship lost in the fog and Earhart's preliterate life provides insight into her mental state. This comparison suggests that Earhart faced challenges and uncertainty in her life, but she was able to overcome them and achieve great success as a pilot.