Question

Eco says ‘I started writing novels by accident.’ Explain. (The Interview)

Hint:

Reference the term "interstices"—the empty spaces in our schedules. Eco's "accident" shows how a genius can excel in a completely different genre through mere curiosity.

Answer 1

Concept:

• Spontaneity in the creative process.
• Utilizing empty time or "interstices" for experimentation.

Step 1: Mention Umberto Eco's primary identity as an academic
Umberto Eco was primarily a scholar and academic who wrote serious philosophical and semiotic essays.
He did not consider himself a novelist by profession for most of his adult life.

Step 2: Explain the "accidental" transition to fiction
Eco mentions that he had nothing to do one day and decided to try his hand at writing a novel just to satisfy his narrative interests.
This spontaneous decision, born out of a moment of boredom or free time (which he calls "interstices"), led to the creation of 'The Name of the Rose,' which became a massive global success.