Umberto Eco published his first novel, “The Name of the Rose,” at the age of 48. In chapter 7, The Interview, from the Class 12 English textbook, this milestone is significant as it highlights Eco’s late entry into the realm of fiction writing, despite his extensive background as a scholar and semiotician. The novel, which combines historical fiction with philosophical and detective elements, became an immediate success and established Eco as a prominent figure in literature. His late debut underscores the idea that profound literary contributions can emerge from years of intellectual exploration and academic pursuit, rather than solely from early career beginnings.