“The Interview” by Christopher Silvester explores something most of us will face in life—being judged while trying to present our best selves. Through a rich discussion on the history, purpose, and controversy surrounding interviews, the chapter helps us see interviews not just as formal conversations, but as powerful tools that reveal both truth and personality.

Some people see interviews as honest storytelling, while others feel they invade personal space. This duality is what makes the chapter so relatable. For students preparing for the real world, “The Interview” offers not just literary insight, but also life lessons on confidence, communication, and self-expression.

The second part, featuring Umberto Eco’s interview, is a gentle reminder that even great thinkers remain humble and human. His calm responses show us that behind every success story is a person who has learned to speak with grace and honesty.

At www.dasklibro.com, we’ve designed this page to help you:

• 📚 Understand each part of the chapter with clear and complete NCERT solutions
  
  

• 📝 Prepare exam-ready answers with proper structure and insight
  
  

• 💬 Reflect on real-world relevance, including how to face interviews confidently
  
  

• 🎯 Master the art of analysis, tone, and literary appreciation for CBSE success
  
  

This chapter is not just about answering questions—it’s about finding your voice. Let us help you prepare for the exam and for the many interviews that life may bring.

Understanding the text

1. Do you think Umberto Eco likes being interviewed? Give reasons for your opinion.

📝 20 words:

Yes, Eco seems to enjoy interviews as he shares stories, laughs, and uses them to explain his thoughts clearly.

📝 40 words:

Umberto Eco appears comfortable with being interviewed. He answers questions thoughtfully, shares personal stories, and even jokes during the conversation. His openness and engaging responses indicate that he sees interviews as a meaningful way to express his ideas and personality.

📝 60 words:

Umberto Eco doesn’t mind being interviewed. He talks openly, uses humor, and reflects deeply on his writing and thinking process. His comfort in explaining complex ideas in a simple way and his friendly interaction with the interviewer show that he sees interviews as an opportunity rather than an intrusion. He treats it as an extension of his intellectual engagement.

📝 80 words:

Umberto Eco seems to enjoy being interviewed, as he communicates with warmth, humor, and depth. He shares personal anecdotes, philosophical ideas, and even jokes with the interviewer. Eco uses the interview to reflect on his dual identity as an academic and novelist, and treats the conversation as a chance to narrate his life’s journey. His calm demeanor and willingness to explain his thinking clearly indicate that he finds interviews an effective medium to reach a wider audience and share his worldview.

2. How does Eco find the time to write so much?

📝 20 words:

Eco uses “interstices”—small, idle moments in daily life like waiting or traveling—to write and stay productive.

📝 40 words:

Eco finds time by working in “interstices,” or small gaps in his daily routine. He utilizes these moments efficiently, such as while waiting for an elevator, to write articles. This habit of using spare time helps him remain highly productive.

📝 60 words:

Eco manages his writing by using interstices—those tiny empty moments in everyday life, like waiting or traveling. Instead of wasting these intervals, he fills them with writing or thinking. This efficient use of time allows him to complete a large volume of work, even while maintaining his main profession as a professor and attending academic conferences regularly.

📝 80 words:

Umberto Eco finds time to write by making use of the “interstices” or small gaps that exist between everyday activities. For example, he might write an article while waiting for a guest’s elevator to arrive. These moments may seem insignificant to most people, but Eco turns them into productive periods. His ability to recognize and utilize such brief time slots throughout the day helps him produce a vast amount of work, balancing his academic career with his passion for writing.

3. What was distinctive about Eco’s academic writing style?

📝 20 words:

Eco’s academic style is narrative and personal. He includes his research process, making it engaging and less formal.

📝 40 words:

Unlike the usual dry academic writing, Eco’s style is engaging and story-like. He presents the process of research, including his mistakes and corrections. This personal and narrative approach makes his scholarly works more relatable and interesting to readers.

📝 60 words:

Eco’s academic writing stands out because of its personal, informal tone and narrative quality. He believed in telling the story of his research instead of just listing facts and conclusions. His dissertation, written this way, was appreciated and published. This style carried over to his essays and scholarly books, making them accessible and enjoyable even to non-academic readers.

📝 80 words:

Umberto Eco’s academic writing is unique due to its informal and narrative style. Rather than following the traditional, impersonal format of presenting theories and conclusions, Eco tells the story of his research, including the trials, errors, and discoveries along the way. He adopted this approach after receiving positive feedback on his doctoral dissertation. This storytelling method brings life to his academic work, making it more engaging and relatable for a broader audience, which is rare in scholarly writing.

4. Did Umberto Eco consider himself a novelist first or an academic scholar?

📝 20 words:

Eco considered himself an academic scholar who writes novels on Sundays. He primarily identified with the university and scholarly community.

📝 40 words:

Umberto Eco saw himself mainly as a university professor, not a novelist. He humorously said he writes novels “on Sundays,” highlighting that his identity is rooted in academia. He actively participates in academic events, not literary gatherings or writers' clubs.

📝 60 words:

Eco regarded himself first and foremost as an academic scholar. He jokingly said he was a professor who writes novels on Sundays, indicating that writing fiction was secondary to his scholarly work. His involvement in academic conferences and his vast contributions to academic literature show that he deeply identified with the academic world more than the literary or novelist community.

📝 80 words:

Umberto Eco clearly considered himself an academic before a novelist. He humorously described himself as “a professor who writes novels on Sundays.” His dedication to academia is reflected in his active participation in scholarly conferences and the fact that he has written over 40 non-fiction books compared to only a few novels. Although he acknowledges that his novels reach a wider audience, Eco sees his primary identity as being part of the academic world and values his contributions to research and teaching.

5. What is the reason for the huge success of the novel The Name of the Rose?

📝 20 words:

Eco believes the novel’s success is mysterious. It offered a deep, complex story at a time when readers welcomed challenges.

📝 40 words:

Eco feels the success of The Name of the Rose cannot be fully explained. Although it dealt with complex themes like theology and medieval history, readers embraced it. He believes timing played a role and that serious readers do exist.

📝 60 words:

Umberto Eco believes that the massive success of The Name of the Rose is partly mysterious. While it tackled serious topics like theology, semiotics, and medieval history, it also offered an engaging detective story. He feels the timing of its release played a big role, and he disagrees with the idea that readers only enjoy simple or trashy content.

📝 80 words:

Eco is surprised by the huge success of The Name of the Rose and considers it a mystery. The novel blends detective fiction with deep philosophical, theological, and historical themes. While journalists and publishers doubted its potential, Eco believed there were readers who appreciated intellectually challenging content. He feels the book succeeded because it appealed to thoughtful readers looking for more than easy entertainment. He also acknowledges that the timing of its release may have contributed to its unexpected popularity.

Working with Words: Discourse Linkers and Signallers

✅ What are Linkers?

Linkers are words or phrases that connect one part of a conversation or text to another. They create coherence (smooth flow of ideas).

✨ Examples of Linkers in the text:

"Which is?"

"That’s possible."

"Which brings me to my next question..."

"But let me tell you another story..."

"Not everyone can do that, of course."

These link:

questions with answers,

ideas with examples,

and transitions between topics.

---

✅ What are Signallers?

Signallers are phrases that indicate a shift in the topic or prepare the listener for a new point.

✨ Examples of Signallers:

"Which brings me to another question..." → indicates a new topic or question is coming.

"But let me tell you another story..." → prepares the listener for a story or example.

These signallers help:

maintain structure in a conversation,

guide the listener,

and make the interview easy to follow.

✍️ How you can use them in your writing or interviews:

Use linkers like "and", "so", "but", "which", or phrases like "this means", "in contrast", etc.

Use signallers like "Let’s talk about...", "Now moving to...", or "I’d like to add..."

🔶 What to Notice:

1. Discourse Linkers

These link the current statement to the previous one.

They show connection, agreement, or contrast between ideas.

✅ Examples from the chapter:

Dialogue Linker Used Function

“I am convinced I am always doing the same thing.” Which is? Links the response to the previous sentence.

“Not everyone can do that, of course.” of course Acknowledges the interviewer’s compliment and brings realism.

“Over 40.” Repetition of interviewer’s words Keeps continuity by echoing and confirming.

2. Signallers

These are phrases used to shift the topic smoothly or introduce something new.

✅ Examples from the interview:

Expression Function

“Which brings me to my next question...” Prepares for a new question or shift in topic.

“But let me tell you another story...” Signals a transition to a personal anecdote or example.

🧠 Why are Linkers and Signallers Important?

They:

Help maintain a natural, logical flow in conversation.

Make interviews easier to follow.

Avoid abrupt or confusing changes in topics.

---

Practice Example:

"Eco says he writes in interstices — small free moments in life."

🔄 Add a linker:

 “That’s interesting. It shows how little time, if used well, can produce great results.”

🪄Add a signaller:

“Now let’s talk about his views on novels. Eco wrote The Name of the Rose, which became a bestseller.”

Extra Questions

 ✅ 1. Why is the interview considered a powerful form of communication?

20 words:

It reveals thoughts, emotions, and truths directly from the speaker, creating personal connections with readers or viewers.

40 words:

Interviews connect people through real conversations. They offer insights into personalities, emotions, and thoughts. Because they are direct and spontaneous, interviews reveal the inner side of famous people, making them a very effective and personal form of communication.

60 words:

The interview is considered powerful because it provides direct access to the thoughts, emotions, and opinions of influential people. It allows readers or viewers to understand them personally. It is informal yet deep, revealing stories, values, and experiences that wouldn’t usually be known. Its unique question-answer format engages both the subject and the audience effectively.

80 words:

Interviews are considered one of the most effective communication tools because they provide firsthand insights into the personality, beliefs, and life of the interviewee. They help build a connection between the public and the person being interviewed, often revealing personal details, philosophies, and emotions. Unlike articles or speeches, interviews allow for a spontaneous, unscripted exchange of ideas. This makes them engaging, informative, and very impactful in shaping public perception and understanding.

---

✅ 2. How did Lewis Carroll react to interview requests?

20 words:

Lewis Carroll hated interviews and avoided them completely. He feared being over-glorified and losing his privacy.

40 words:

Lewis Carroll strongly disliked interviews. He avoided all requests and had a “just horror” of interviewers. He feared being lionized and preferred to stay private. He even shared his success in avoiding them with pride and amusement.

60 words:

Lewis Carroll had a deep dislike for interviews and refused every request. He had what was called a “just horror” of interviewers and feared becoming too popular or lionized. He believed interviews intruded upon his personal space. Carroll would later boast about how he successfully avoided such requests and silenced people who sought autographs or meetings.

80 words:

Lewis Carroll was famously against being interviewed. He had a “just horror” of interviewers and declined every such opportunity. He feared that interviews would lead to overexposure, making him a public figure beyond his comfort. He didn’t want to be idolized or chased by fans. Carroll often joked with pride about his success in avoiding interviews and silencing those who approached him with autograph or interview requests. This shows how strongly he guarded his personal life.

---

✅ 3. What is the role of an interviewer in today’s society?

20 words:

The interviewer connects the public to personalities. They shape public opinion and hold influence through thoughtful questioning.

40 words:

In today’s world, the interviewer plays a powerful role. By asking the right questions, they help reveal truths, thoughts, and deeper meanings from celebrities, leaders, and experts. Their questions guide the conversation and shape public understanding and perception.

60 words:

Interviewers today hold great importance as they act as a bridge between the public and the personalities they interview. Through their questions, they help uncover hidden aspects of the person’s life or ideas. A good interviewer doesn't just seek answers but also helps the subject express themselves clearly. They influence how the public perceives an individual, issue, or idea.

80 words:

The interviewer today holds significant social influence. They serve as a bridge between the public and the individual being interviewed—often a celebrity, leader, or expert. A good interviewer asks thoughtful, relevant questions that not only gather facts but also reveal personal insights. This helps the public better understand the interviewee’s life, beliefs, and character. Interviews often shape how a person is perceived by society, which gives the interviewer considerable power in framing public narratives.

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✅ 4. What does Umberto Eco mean by “interstices”?

20 words:

Interstices are the small, unused moments in daily life, which Eco utilizes for writing and thinking productively.

40 words:

Eco refers to “interstices” as the little gaps in our day—like waiting for a lift or sitting idle. He uses these empty spaces creatively to write articles, showing how even brief moments can be turned into productive time.

60 words:

Umberto Eco defines “interstices” as small, idle moments in one’s daily routine—such as waiting for an elevator or traveling. He says he uses these brief periods effectively to write articles or think through ideas. Instead of wasting time, Eco transforms interstices into creative opportunities, which helps him produce a large body of work despite his academic commitments.

80 words:

By “interstices,” Umberto Eco means the little moments of free time between tasks in our daily lives—like waiting for someone, traveling, or standing in a queue. While most people overlook these short gaps, Eco uses them for writing or thinking. He believes that even a few minutes can be productive if used well. This habit of writing in such empty spaces allows him to manage time efficiently and produce a vast amount of work, both fiction and academic.

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✅ 5. What was Eco’s reaction to being identified mainly as a novelist?

20 words:

Eco preferred being seen as a professor, not a novelist, though he accepted that novels reached more people.

40 words:

Eco found it slightly disappointing that people only saw him as a novelist. He preferred identifying as a university professor but accepted that his novels gained more public attention than his academic work. He shrugged it off humorously.

60 words:

Eco said he was “a professor who writes novels on Sundays.” He felt more connected to his academic life and scholarly work. While he didn’t mind the fame his novels brought, he admitted feeling a little bothered that most people knew him only as a novelist. However, he accepted that fiction attracted a larger audience than academic texts.

80 words:

Umberto Eco acknowledged that most people knew him only as a novelist, but he personally identified more as a scholar and professor. He humorously mentioned that he writes novels only “on Sundays.” While he didn’t resent his success in fiction, he felt a bit uneasy that his serious academic work didn’t receive the same recognition. Still, he understood that novels appeal to a wider audience, and he accepted this reality with a laugh and a shrug, showing both humility and self-awareness.

✅ 6. Why did Rudyard Kipling dislike interviews?

20 words:

Kipling called interviews immoral and compared them to personal assaults, believing no respectable man should ask or give one.

40 words:

Rudyard Kipling considered interviews as deeply unethical. He believed they were an assault on his privacy, calling them cowardly and vile. Interestingly, he once interviewed Mark Twain himself, though he later strongly rejected the idea of being interviewed.

60 words:

Rudyard Kipling had a very harsh opinion of interviews. He called them immoral, cowardly, and an assault on personal dignity. He believed they were inappropriate and should be punishable. Ironically, Kipling himself had once interviewed the great writer Mark Twain, but later expressed strong disapproval of the practice, especially when it invaded his personal space and life.

80 words:

Rudyard Kipling disliked interviews to an extreme degree. He believed that asking or giving interviews was immoral, like committing a crime against a person. His wife noted in her diary how their day was “wrecked” by two reporters. Kipling called interviews vile, cowardly, and compared them to physical assaults. He argued that no respectable man would ever request or give one. Despite this strong stance, he had once interviewed Mark Twain, showing that his views evolved over time.

---

✅ 7. How is Eco’s writing style different from typical academic writing?

20 words:

Eco’s academic writing is personal and narrative-based, unlike the dry, impersonal tone common in scholarly works.

40 words:

Eco’s writing style is informal and story-like. He includes his research process, mistakes, and discoveries. Unlike typical academic texts, his essays feel personal and are engaging, which makes them accessible to a larger audience beyond just scholars.

60 words:

Umberto Eco’s academic writing differs from traditional scholarly work by being more narrative and personal. Instead of just presenting dry facts and conclusions, Eco includes the entire journey of his research—his questions, errors, and learning. This unique style, which he began during his doctoral thesis, brings life to his academic texts and helps bridge the gap between academic and general audiences.

80 words:

Eco’s academic writing breaks away from the usual dry and depersonalized style often seen in scholarly work. He believes in telling the story of his research, including trials, errors, and evolving ideas. This narrative and informal approach helps readers connect with the subject more naturally. His professors initially found it unusual but appreciated its clarity and honesty. This engaging method made Eco’s essays and books more readable, allowing non-experts to enjoy and learn from his academic insights.

---

✅ 8. What does Eco say about the popularity of difficult books?

20 words:

Eco believes serious readers exist and don’t always want easy books. The Name of the Rose proved complex books can succeed.

40 words:

Eco rejects the idea that people only enjoy light, trashy books. He believes many readers enjoy challenging content, as seen in the success of The Name of the Rose, which blended complex themes like theology and medieval history.

60 words:

Eco argues that publishers and journalists underestimate readers by assuming they only want simple or easy books. He believes there's a significant group that enjoys serious, thoughtful reading. The Name of the Rose sold millions, proving that a novel with deep philosophical and historical themes can still be commercially successful when presented in an engaging and accessible way.

80 words:

Eco believes the success of The Name of the Rose proved that there are readers who enjoy intellectually rich books. He criticizes publishers and journalists who assume people want only entertainment and “trash.” While he admits the novel didn’t reach all six billion people, he’s proud that millions still appreciated its challenging content. This shows that many readers desire deeper experiences through literature and are willing to engage with books that demand thought and concentration.

---

✅ 9. Why did Eco start writing novels late in life?

20 words:

Eco began writing novels around age 50. He did it by accident and felt satisfied narrating stories beyond academia.

40 words:

Eco didn’t plan to be a novelist. He started writing fiction around 50 simply because he had free time one day. He discovered that novels satisfied his love for storytelling, which his academic work couldn’t fully explore.

60 words:

Umberto Eco started writing novels later in life, around the age of 50. He did it accidentally one day when he had nothing else to do. His love for narration, which he had already used in essays, found deeper satisfaction through novels. Unlike his friend Roland Barthes, who died without fulfilling his dream to write creatively, Eco never felt such frustration.

80 words:

Eco began writing novels quite late, at around 50 years of age. It wasn’t planned—he started simply because he had some free time one day. He realized that writing fiction satisfied his desire to narrate stories in a way academic writing couldn't. He had already been using a narrative tone in his scholarly essays. Inspired partly by his love for storytelling and not facing the creative frustration his friend Roland Barthes felt, Eco embraced novel-writing happily and successfully.

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✅ 10. What does Eco say about the mystery of success?

20 words:

Eco says success is unpredictable. If The Name of the Rose came earlier or later, it might not have worked.

40 words:

Eco believes success is mysterious and can’t be predicted. He says The Name of the Rose worked because of perfect timing. If published earlier or later, it might have failed. Even his publisher underestimated its appeal in America.

60 words:

Umberto Eco feels the success of The Name of the Rose is a mystery. He believes success depends on timing and cannot be planned. His American publisher expected only 3,000 sales, but the book sold millions. Eco admits that had the book been released ten years earlier or later, it might not have had the same impact, proving success isn’t always logical.

80 words:

Eco expresses that success, especially in literature, is often beyond one’s control and full of mystery. He recalls how his American publisher expected to sell just 3,000 copies, yet the book went on to sell millions. He believes that if The Name of the Rose had been published ten years earlier or later, it might not have succeeded. This shows how unpredictable and timing-dependent public response can be. Eco emphasizes that no formula guarantees success—it often happens unexpectedly.

✅ 11. What was the interviewer’s opinion about Eco’s non-fiction writing?

20 words:

The interviewer found Eco’s non-fiction writing playful, personal, and unlike the typical dry academic style seen in most scholarly books.

40 words:

The interviewer noted that Eco’s non-fiction writing had a personal and lively tone. It was different from the dull, depersonalized academic style. He appreciated Eco’s ability to make complex topics engaging and accessible through his storytelling approach in scholarly work.

60 words:

Mukund Padmanabhan found Eco’s non-fiction writing unique because it felt personal and engaging. Unlike traditional academic writing, which is often dry and difficult to read, Eco’s style was informal and narrative. This allowed him to communicate complex ideas with clarity and appeal. The interviewer admired how Eco made scholarly writing enjoyable without losing its seriousness or depth.

80 words:

The interviewer praised Umberto Eco’s non-fiction writing for its distinct style, describing it as playful and personal. He felt it stood apart from the usual academic works that are dry and formal. Eco’s writing style was refreshing because it presented philosophical and literary ideas in a narrative format, making it easier and more interesting for a wider audience to understand. The interviewer admired Eco’s ability to blend deep thinking with a relatable tone, which made his academic work feel alive.

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✅ 12. How did Eco react to the interviewer’s admiration of his productivity?

20 words:

Eco humbly said he just appeared productive but was actually doing the same thing in different ways across formats.

40 words:

Eco responded modestly, saying that although it seems he does many things, he is actually doing the same thing repeatedly. He explained that his philosophical interests guide all his works—whether fiction, essays, or children’s books.

60 words:

Umberto Eco reacted humbly to the interviewer’s admiration. He explained that while it looks like he is involved in many things, everything he does revolves around the same ethical and philosophical ideas. Whether it’s fiction, academic texts, or children’s books, the core theme remains constant. His varied work is simply different expressions of the same interests.

80 words:

Eco didn’t accept the compliment about his productivity without clarification. He explained that he’s not doing many different things but rather expressing the same ideas in different forms. All his work—academic essays, fiction, or even children’s books—is driven by the same core of philosophical and ethical questions. This response showed Eco’s humility, as he didn’t boast about his accomplishments but instead highlighted the unity of his intellectual pursuits.

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✅ 13. What did Eco’s professor say about his doctoral dissertation?

20 words:

His professor said Eco told the story of his research, including mistakes, unlike others who only show the final result.

40 words:

Eco’s professor noticed that his dissertation was different from traditional ones. Instead of listing facts, Eco narrated his research journey, including errors and corrections. Although unusual, the professor appreciated it and even published the dissertation as a book.

60 words:

Umberto Eco’s professor observed that his dissertation did not follow the usual academic style. Instead of presenting only the final conclusions, Eco narrated the entire research process, including his initial doubts and failed attempts. The professor found this approach refreshing and valuable, and despite its unconventional nature, he appreciated the honesty and clarity. As a result, the dissertation was published as a book.

80 words:

Eco’s doctoral dissertation stood out because he didn’t just present conclusions but told the complete story of his research process. This included false starts, trial and error, and moments of doubt—something rarely seen in academic writing. His professor initially found it unusual but recognized its value and authenticity. He appreciated the originality so much that he arranged to have it published. This experience taught Eco that scholarly writing could be personal and narrative, shaping his future writing style.

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✅ 14. How did Eco describe the appeal of his novels to the masses?

20 words:

Eco believed that some readers enjoy serious books. His novels appealed to those seeking meaningful, not just entertaining, content.

40 words:

Eco said that while not everyone reads serious literature, there are still many who enjoy deep, thoughtful books. His novel The Name of the Rose found readers who didn’t want easy experiences but were open to challenges.

60 words:

Eco believed his novels appealed to a specific group of readers who appreciate intellectual depth. He rejected the idea that people only want light, simple content. He said readers of The Name of the Rose were not looking for an easy read but rather something meaningful and challenging, filled with theology, philosophy, and history.

80 words:

Eco explained that The Name of the Rose appealed to readers who sought more than entertainment. He dismissed the belief that people only like simple books, saying many readers enjoy deep, complex themes. The novel’s success showed that serious fiction can also be widely appreciated. He noted that though only a small percentage of people may read such books, they still form a strong audience for literature that challenges the mind and provokes thought.

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✅ 15. What role does timing play in the success of a book, according to Eco?

20 words:

Eco said timing is crucial. If his novel was released earlier or later, it might not have succeeded.

40 words:

Eco believed timing is key to a book’s success. He felt The Name of the Rose worked because it was released at the right moment. Publishing it earlier or later might have changed the outcome completely.

60 words:

According to Eco, the timing of a book’s release greatly affects its success. He thought The Name of the Rose found success not just because of content, but also because it arrived when readers were ready for it. He believed if it had been released a decade earlier or later, it might not have made the same impact.

80 words:

Eco emphasized that timing is an unpredictable but important factor in a book’s success. He reflected on how The Name of the Rose became a bestseller, not only because of its themes or writing but also due to when it was published. He believed the cultural mood at that time played a role. Had it come out earlier or later, it might have been ignored. This shows how literary success depends on both quality and the right moment of arrival.

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✅ 16. How did Eco balance academic life and fiction writing?

20 words:

Eco balanced both by using his free time efficiently and treating fiction writing as a side activity to academics.

40 words:

Eco managed academic and fictional writing by using interstices—small moments of free time. He remained committed to his university duties and treated writing novels as a weekend or leisure activity, which allowed him to maintain balance without feeling overwhelmed.

60 words:

Umberto Eco balanced academic work and fiction writing by cleverly using the empty spaces in his schedule. He remained dedicated to his scholarly life, attending conferences and teaching, while writing novels in his spare time. He jokingly said he writes novels “on Sundays,” indicating that he never let fiction take over his academic identity but kept both active.

80 words:

Eco maintained balance between his academic and fiction writing by utilizing short free moments during his daily routine, which he called “interstices.” While fully involved in teaching and research as a professor, he reserved novel writing for his personal time, often during weekends. This allowed him to stay connected to his academic identity while pursuing fiction without conflict. He joked that he writes novels “on Sundays,” suggesting that he kept his academic responsibilities primary and his fiction as a passionate side pursuit.

---

✅ 17. What was the interviewer’s attitude during the conversation?

20 words:

The interviewer was respectful, curious, and appreciative. He asked thoughtful questions and gave Eco space to share his insights freely.

40 words:

Mukund Padmanabhan’s tone during the interview was polite, inquisitive, and engaging. He expressed genuine admiration for Eco’s work and asked questions that encouraged deep reflection. His manner allowed Eco to feel comfortable and speak openly about his views.

60 words:

The interviewer maintained a respectful and professional tone throughout the conversation. He expressed curiosity about Eco’s productivity, writing style, and success. His questions were well-framed and insightful, making the dialogue smooth and interesting. He didn’t interrupt or challenge Eco aggressively, which made the interview feel relaxed and allowed Eco to speak at length about various personal and professional topics.

80 words:

Mukund Padmanabhan approached the interview with professionalism, warmth, and intellectual curiosity. He asked questions that reflected his knowledge of Eco’s work and respectfully invited the author to share his thoughts. His tone was friendly yet thoughtful, and he gave Eco full freedom to explain himself. There was no rush, no judgment—just a well-paced, meaningful exchange. This respectful attitude made the interview enjoyable and informative, highlighting how a good interviewer can create space for deep, honest conversation.

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✅ 18. What lesson can students learn from Umberto Eco’s use of time?

20 words:

Students can learn to value small free moments and use them productively, just like Eco used “interstices” to write.

40 words:

Eco teaches that time, even in small bits, can be powerful. Students often waste these moments, but if used wisely—like reading, revising, or reflecting—they can add up to great achievements. Time management is the key takeaway.

60 words:

Umberto Eco’s habit of writing in “interstices”—tiny gaps in daily life—teaches students that productivity doesn’t require long hours. Even short, consistent efforts matter. Instead of wasting small breaks, students can revise notes, solve problems, or brainstorm ideas. These micro-efforts build strong habits and lead to big results over time, making time management a crucial life skill.

80 words:

Students can learn a lot from Umberto Eco’s clever use of time. His idea of “interstices” — those small, unnoticed moments between activities — reminds us that we often waste time without realizing it. Eco used such moments to write articles or think deeply. Similarly, students can use short breaks to review flashcards, reflect, or plan their day. This teaches that success isn’t about having long hours, but about making the best use of what you already have.

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✅ 19. How does the chapter show the contrast between different writers’ views on interviews?

20 words:

Some writers, like Eco, appreciate interviews, while others like Kipling or Carroll view them as intrusive or harmful.

40 words:

The chapter highlights contrasting views—Eco finds interviews useful for sharing ideas, but authors like Carroll and Kipling hate them. Carroll avoided interviews, fearing popularity, and Kipling saw them as immoral, while Eco uses them to express his thoughts.

60 words:

This chapter shows that not all writers feel the same about interviews. While Umberto Eco enjoys them and sees value in sharing ideas, others like Lewis Carroll and Rudyard Kipling hated interviews. Carroll avoided public attention, and Kipling found interviews intrusive and unethical. These contrasting views reveal how differently people react to media exposure and personal questioning.

80 words:

The chapter presents a sharp contrast in how writers perceive interviews. For example, Umberto Eco finds them useful for communicating his ideas and enjoys engaging with thoughtful questions. On the other hand, Lewis Carroll had a deep fear of being interviewed and avoided public attention entirely. Rudyard Kipling went so far as to call interviews immoral and compared them to personal assault. These varied opinions reveal the tension between public communication and personal privacy in the lives of creative individuals.

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✅ 20. What makes Umberto Eco a unique personality in the literary world?

20 words:

Eco combines deep scholarship with storytelling. His ability to write fiction, essays, and children's books makes him exceptional.

40 words:

Umberto Eco stands out because he is both a serious academic and a bestselling novelist. His command over philosophy, semiotics, and fiction writing, along with his narrative academic style, makes him a rare blend of intellectual and creative genius.

60 words:

Eco’s uniqueness lies in his ability to combine scholarly depth with popular appeal. He is a respected professor who writes novels, essays, academic papers, and even children’s books. His works explore complex themes in accessible language. His narrative approach to academic writing and his belief in making serious ideas enjoyable for all readers make him an extraordinary figure in the literary and academic world.

80 words:

Umberto Eco is a rare figure who blends deep academic thinking with mass literary appeal. A professor of semiotics, he wrote over 40 scholarly books, yet gained international fame with his novel The Name of the Rose. His ability to explain complex concepts through narrative style—both in fiction and academic writing—sets him apart. He writes children’s books, essays, and scholarly works, all guided by a central ethical and philosophical core. This diverse, balanced creativity makes him unique in the literary world.