>Would you have been able to feel that deep connection to some element of the story if the author didn't write it well or choose to include it in their story?

Yes, I think you could read deeper meanings in a poorly written book, based on your own personal perspectives and beliefs. You could read a kids book and find a deep personal connection there, while the author intended to write a simple kids book.

The writing of a work may be objectively bad but you could still feel a strong connection with the message that is presented. If that feeling was something the author never intended, then that feeling is more a reflection on you than the author.