This page offers The Interview long answer type question for Class 12 from the book Flamingo. We’ve put together a bunch of long answer type question based on assumption, creativity, extrapolation and critical thinking. These types of questions are introduced after 2024 in CBSE Board. So, practice to understand The Interview long answer type question
The Interview Long Answer Type Question
1. In The Interview, Eco talks about balancing academics and novels. How does he manage both? Do you think it’s possible to do two different things well? (120-150 words)
Answer:In The Interview, Eco explains that he balances his academic work and novel writing by dedicating time to both. He focuses on his academic work first, then writes novels when he has free time. Eco uses “empty spaces,” like waiting for the elevator to work. This method allows him to be productive even with little time.
Yes, it is possible to do two different things well. With good time management, passion, and dedication, you can succeed in more than one area.
The key is to stay organized and focused on both. Eco’s approach shows that with careful planning, we can manage multiple tasks without feeling overwhelmed. Passion for your work can help you stay motivated and productive.
2. Why do celebrities dislike being interviewed in The Interview? Do they have a right to privacy? (120-150 words)
Answer:In The Interview, celebrities often dislike interviews because they feel their privacy is invaded. They worry about being misquoted or having their personal lives exposed. Celebrities are under constant public attention, and interviews can make them feel vulnerable.
They may also feel pressured to reveal things they don’t want to share. Yes, celebrities have a right to privacy, just like anyone else. While interviews are meant to help the public understand their work, their personal lives should remain private unless they choose to share.
Respecting their boundaries is important, as they deserve the same privacy as others. Interviews should focus on their work and public life, not on personal details.
Also Read:
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- The Interview Introduction
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- The Interview Moral and Message
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3. What does Eco’s use of “empty spaces” in The Interview teach us about time management? Can this method work for you? (120-150 words)
Answer:In The Interview, Eco uses “empty spaces” to work, meaning he makes use of small, free moments in his day to write. For example, he writes while waiting for an elevator or during small breaks. This method shows that time management is about using every moment wisely.
Instead of wasting small gaps of time, Eco stays productive and gets more done. I think this method could work for me too. I can use small moments in my day, like waiting for class to start or during lunch breaks, to do something useful.
By focusing on small tasks, I can get more done without feeling overwhelmed. It’s about being disciplined and making time work for you.
4. Why do people enjoy reading difficult books as seen in The Interview? Does the difficulty affect a book’s popularity? (120-150 words)
Answer:In The Interview, Eco’s books are complex but still popular because many readers enjoy the challenge. These books make readers think deeply and explore ideas they might not usually consider. For some, reading difficult books is exciting because it offers a chance to learn and think in new ways.
However, the difficulty of a book doesn’t always affect its popularity. While some people prefer simple, easy-to-read stories for entertainment, others enjoy complex books that make them think. Both types of books have their audience.
The popularity of a book depends on its content and how it connects with the reader, not just how difficult it is to read. Some readers like the challenge, while others prefer simpler stories.
5. How does Eco’s narrative style in The Interview make academic writing more engaging? Would it work for your schoolwork? (120-150 words)
Answer:Eco’s narrative style in The Interview makes academic writing engaging by telling a story. Instead of just presenting facts, he weaves his research into a narrative, making it more interesting. This style helps readers connect with the content and stay focused.
Academic writing can be dry, but by adding a story, Eco makes the material easier to follow and more enjoyable. I think this style would work for my schoolwork.
If I use examples and explain things like a story, it will make my writing more interesting. It will also help me explain complex topics more clearly. By telling a story, I can capture the reader’s attention and make learning more enjoyable.
Also Read:
- The Interview Value Points
- MCQs of The Interview
- The Interview Summary Class 12 pdf
- The Interview Extract Based MCQ questions
- The Interview Very Short answer Type Question
6. Why do you think challenging books are popular as shown in The Interview? Does the difficulty affect a book’s success? (120-150 words)
Answer:In The Interview, Eco explains that challenging books are popular because they make readers think deeply. These books often explore complex ideas that are exciting for people who enjoy learning.
Many readers like the challenge of understanding something new and complex. The difficulty of a book doesn’t always affect its popularity. Some people enjoy the challenge and appreciate books that make them think, while others prefer easier books for quick entertainment.
Eco’s books show that difficult books can still be successful if they offer new ideas and challenge the reader. People are often drawn to books that are intellectually stimulating, but simple books also have their place in the world of literature.
7. What can we learn from Eco balancing academics and novels in The Interview? Is this balance difficult to maintain? (120-150 words)
Answer:In The Interview, Eco shows that it’s possible to balance academics and novel writing with good time management. He focuses on his academic work first and writes novels when he has time. Eco uses every free moment to write, such as when waiting for an elevator. This method helps him stay productive without feeling overwhelmed.
Maintaining this balance can be difficult, especially when one job requires more time than the other. However, by being organized and focused, it’s possible to balance two careers. Eco’s approach teaches us that with passion, discipline, and planning, we can manage multiple responsibilities and find time for everything we love.
8. How do books influence young readers as shown in The Interview? Do books shape a child’s character? (120-150 words)
Answer:In The Interview, Eco talks about how children’s books teach values like non-violence. Books have a strong influence on young readers because they teach important lessons about life. When children read books with good messages, they learn how to treat others kindly, respect differences, and understand right from wrong.
Books shape a child’s character by helping them understand the world and their role in it. They can learn about kindness, honesty, and empathy through the stories they read. Yes, books are important in shaping a child’s character. They influence how children grow up and how they treat others. By reading stories with strong values, children can become better people.
9. Why is the success of The Name of the Rose surprising in The Interview? Can success be predicted? (120-150 words)
Answer:In The Interview, Eco shares how The Name of the Rose became a success, even though it was complex and not an easy read. Success can be difficult to predict because many factors influence it, like timing, audience, and even luck.
A book might become successful unexpectedly if it connects with the right people at the right time. Sometimes, books that are challenging to read find an audience who appreciates the complexity. However, success is not always guaranteed, and it is hard to predict.
What works for one book may not work for another. Eco’s book shows that even complex ideas can find success if they resonate with readers.
10. How does Eco’s start in writing novels by accident show the role of chance in success as discussed in The Interview? Should we be open to unexpected opportunities? (120-150 words)
Answer:In The Interview, Eco started writing novels by accident when he had free time. This shows that success often comes from unexpected opportunities. Sometimes, life doesn’t follow a clear plan, and good things happen by chance.
Eco didn’t plan to write novels, but he did when the opportunity came. Being open to new opportunities is important because they might lead to something great. If Eco had never started writing that day, he might not have become a famous novelist.
We should always stay open to unexpected chances because they can lead to exciting new experiences. Sometimes, the best things happen when we least expect them.
11. Based on The Interview, what do you think motivates Eco to write both academic papers and novels? How might his personal experiences shape his decision to maintain such a dual career? (120-150 words)
Answer:Eco’s motivation to write both academic papers and novels likely comes from his deep curiosity and intellectual drive. Academics allow him to explore ideas systematically, while novels give him freedom to create and express personal reflections.
His experience as a scholar might shape his novel-writing process, pushing him to add complex ideas in a creative form. The balance of these careers suggests that Eco is driven not just by external success but by an internal need for intellectual stimulation and self-expression.
His dual career might reflect his desire to reach different audiences—academics who appreciate deep analysis and readers who enjoy complex stories. Eco’s decision to maintain both careers may come from a personal belief that knowledge and creativity are connected and should work in harmony.
12. How do you think Eco’s use of “empty spaces” to work, as mentioned in The Interview, reflects his overall approach to life and productivity? Do you believe this strategy could work in today’s fast-paced world? (120-150 words)
Answer:Eco’s use of “empty spaces” shows a deep understanding of how time can be used creatively, even in small moments. This approach reflects his belief in making the most of time rather than waiting for perfect conditions. It also suggests that Eco is organized and highly disciplined, valuing every moment as an opportunity for productivity.
In today’s fast-paced world, this strategy could still be effective. People often feel rushed and overwhelmed, yet making use of even small breaks or moments of downtime can lead to improved productivity.
The key is to shift focus from “waiting for time” to actively using “free moments,” which may allow us to accomplish more and feel more in control of our time.
13. If Umberto Eco had chosen to focus only on writing novels, do you think he would have been as successful as he is today? What factors might have affected his success in that case? (120-150 words)
Answer:If Eco had focused only on writing novels, it’s likely that his success would have been different. His academic career provided him with a strong intellectual foundation and credibility that helped his novels stand out.
Eco’s deep knowledge of philosophy, history, and semiotics allowed him to bring complex ideas into his novels, making them not only entertaining but also intellectually stimulating. Without his academic background, his novels might not have appealed to the same audience, and he may not have had the same depth in his writing.
His dual career allowed him to reach diverse audiences—academics and general readers alike. The combination of both careers gave Eco a unique position, allowing his works to gain both critical acclaim and popular success.
14. In The Interview, Eco mentions his frustration with how people often define him primarily as a novelist. How do you think this reflects a deeper issue about the perception of academic work versus creative work? (120-150 words)
Answer:Eco’s frustration with being labeled primarily as a novelist rather than an academic reflects a common issue in how society values different types of work. Academic work is often seen as more serious and intellectual, while creative work, like novel writing, is sometimes viewed as less serious or trivial.
Eco’s situation highlights how the creative process is often underestimated compared to intellectual pursuits. People may not realize that writing a novel requires deep thought, complex analysis, and creative skill, just like academic writing.
This reflects a deeper societal bias where artistic or creative pursuits are seen as secondary to more “serious” academic work. Eco’s case challenges the idea that intellectual work is only academic, encouraging us to appreciate the overlap between creativity and knowledge.
15. Given Eco’s comments on his creative writing and its connection to his academic work, what do you think is the relationship between creativity and structured knowledge? Can one exist without the other? (120-150 words)
Answer:Eco’s comments suggest that creativity and structured knowledge are deeply interconnected. His novels, though fictional, are rooted in his academic understanding of philosophy, history, and semiotics.
This shows that creativity often builds upon knowledge and structured thinking, as understanding complex concepts can inspire new, innovative ideas. In Eco’s case, his academic work influenced his creative writing, enriching it with depth and intellectual insight.
While it’s possible for one to exist without the other—some creative works are purely imaginative, and some academic work is highly structured—combining both seems to produce more meaningful, impactful results. Creativity without knowledge can be ungrounded and aimless, while knowledge without creativity can be rigid and uninspired. Together, they enhance each other, creating works that are both thought-provoking and imaginative.
16. In The Interview, Eco talks about the importance of making time for both academic and creative work. What does this teach us about balancing work and passion in life? How important do you think it is to pursue both professional and personal passions? (120-150 words)
Answer:Eco’s ability to balance academic work and writing novels shows that it’s important to find time for both professional responsibilities and personal passions. His approach teaches us that we should not sacrifice one for the other but find ways to integrate both into our lives.
Pursuing both passions can lead to greater fulfillment and creativity. While professional work may bring financial security and stability, personal passions give us joy and personal growth. It’s crucial to maintain a balance, as it can help keep us motivated and energized.
Without passion, work may feel like a chore, while without work, our passions may not reach their full potential. So, both are equally important in leading a well-rounded and fulfilling life.
17. Eco mentions in The Interview that he enjoys his academic work as much as writing novels. What does this say about the importance of doing work you enjoy? Can passion for your work make a difference in its outcome? (120-150 words)
Answer:Eco’s statement shows that doing work you enjoy is key to achieving personal satisfaction and success. When we are passionate about what we do, it doesn’t feel like work—it becomes a way of expressing ourselves and engaging with the world.
Passion makes us more dedicated and focused, leading to better outcomes. In Eco’s case, his love for both academic and creative work made him excel in both fields. Passion helps fuel creativity and drive, making challenges easier to overcome.
When we enjoy our work, we are motivated to go the extra mile and produce our best. It’s clear that passion can positively impact the quality of our work and help us achieve greater success, as seen in Eco’s career.
18. In The Interview, Eco talks about how interviews can be stressful for celebrities and public figures. What does this tell us about the value of respecting people’s privacy, especially in today’s digital age? (120-150 words)
Answer:Eco’s comments about celebrities feeling stressed in interviews highlight the importance of respecting people’s privacy. In today’s digital age, where social media and paparazzi often invade personal spaces, respecting privacy has become even more crucial.
Everyone, including public figures, has the right to their personal space and the choice of what they want to share. Constant attention can lead to stress, anxiety, and a loss of control over one’s personal life. Respecting privacy means recognizing boundaries and allowing people to live without fear of exploitation.
It’s important to focus on their professional lives, not pry into their private moments. In the age of information overload, practicing respect for others’ privacy fosters trust and allows for more meaningful, positive interactions.
19. Eco uses his “empty spaces” for productive work in The Interview. What does this teach us about the value of time management and making the most of small moments in life? (120-150 words)
Answer:Eco’s use of “empty spaces” shows us that time management isn’t just about big chunks of time but also about using small moments effectively. Often, we think we need hours to accomplish something significant, but small gaps in our day can be just as valuable.
By using these moments to write or think, Eco shows that productivity doesn’t always need to be planned; it can happen in small, unexpected times. This teaches us the importance of being mindful of how we spend our time, even during short breaks.
Time management is about making the most of every moment, which can lead to greater success in our personal and professional lives. Whether it’s reading, planning, or working, we can achieve more by using “empty spaces” wisely.
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Class 12 for 2025-26
CBSE English Class 12 Notes
20. In The Interview, Eco reflects on the success of The Name of the Rose, which was unexpected due to its complexity. What does this suggest about the value of taking risks and embracing challenges, even when success is uncertain? (120-150 words)
Answer:Eco’s reflection on the unexpected success of The Name of the Rose teaches us the value of taking risks and embracing challenges. He wrote a complex novel, not expecting it to be a bestseller, yet it became one. This shows that even when the outcome is uncertain, taking risks and pursuing what we believe in can lead to unexpected rewards.
It encourages us to step out of our comfort zones and challenge ourselves, as growth often happens in difficult situations. If Eco had played it safe and written something simpler, he may not have reached the same level of success.
This highlights the importance of daring to take chances, even when the path ahead seems uncertain. Embracing challenges can bring new opportunities and achievements that we might not have imagined.
21. In The Interview, Eco talks about balancing academia and novel writing. What does this teach us about managing multiple roles? Can one excel in more than one field? (120-150 words)
Answer:Eco’s ability to balance both academic work and novel writing suggests that it’s important to find time for both professional responsibilities and personal passions. His story teaches us that fulfilling multiple roles can bring a sense of balance and diversity to life.
The tension between being a scholar and a novelist shows the complexity of human ambition. It’s possible to excel in more than one field if a person has passion, discipline, and good time management.
Both careers serve different purposes—one intellectual and the other creative—but together, they complement each other. The key to excelling in multiple fields lies in maintaining a balance and managing time wisely.
22. Eco reflects on the importance of lifelong learning in The Interview. How can we apply this idea to our own learning process? (120-150 words)
Answer:In The Interview, Eco’s reflections show that lifelong learning and growth are crucial to both personal and professional fulfillment. He emphasizes the importance of continuously pursuing knowledge, whether through academia or creative writing.
Eco’s willingness to explore both sides of his intellectual life reflects a commitment to growth, even later in life. We can apply this idea by staying curious and open to new experiences, whether in our studies or hobbies.
Lifelong learning doesn’t mean sticking to one path; it means exploring different avenues, embracing challenges, and continually evolving. The pursuit of knowledge and self-improvement should never stop, no matter our age or career.
23. Eco mentions the role of chance in his success. How do luck and hard work connect in achieving success? Can we rely on one over the other? (120-150 words)
Answer:In The Interview, Eco suggests that while hard work plays a huge role in success, chance also has a part to play. Hard work provides the foundation, but luck or timing can influence the outcome. It’s the combination of both that leads to significant achievements.
For instance, Eco worked hard as an academic and novelist, but the success of The Name of the Rose was also due to the right timing and circumstances. Relying solely on hard work might not always guarantee success, but neither can we depend solely on luck. A balanced approach, where hard work meets the right opportunities, is often the key to success.
24. In The Interview, Eco says interviews reveal only what the interviewer wants to see. How does this affect communication? How can we ensure our ideas are truly understood? (120-150 words)
Answer:Eco’s comments in The Interview suggest that communication is often limited by the biases and intentions of the interviewer. Even in a conversation, what we say may not always be fully understood or may be distorted by the listener’s perspective.
To ensure that we are truly understood, we need to be clear and direct in our communication, but also open to feedback. It’s important to consider the perspective of the person we are communicating with and adapt our message accordingly.
Moreover, fostering open and honest dialogue, where both sides actively listen, helps overcome these limitations. True communication involves mutual understanding, not just speaking our thoughts but ensuring they are received as intended.
25. Eco discusses the pressure on celebrities to be perfect. How does this pressure affect mental well-being? How can we reduce this pressure in today’s world? (120-150 words)
Answer:Eco’s reflections on the pressure that celebrities face highlight how constant public scrutiny can take a toll on mental health. The pressure to always appear perfect or “on” can cause stress, anxiety, and a sense of losing one’s true self.
For people in the spotlight, the fear of being judged or misunderstood can lead to a lack of privacy and emotional exhaustion. In today’s world, we can reduce this pressure by promoting authenticity and understanding that nobody is perfect. Encouraging self-compassion and supporting mental health awareness can help people cope with this pressure.
We should value individuals for their true selves, not just the image they present. By fostering a more accepting and empathic environment, we can alleviate some of the pressure that people face.