The real hero is always a hero by mistake; he dreams of being an honest coward like everybody else.
Umberto EcoEvery time that I write a novel I am convinced for at least two years that it is the last one, because a novel is like a child. It takes two years after its birth. You have to take care of it. It starts walking, and then speaking.
Umberto EcoThe truth is a young maiden as modest as she is beautiful, and therefore she is always seen cloaked.
Umberto EcoToday I realize that many recent exercises in "deconstructive reading" read as if inspired by my parody. This is parody's mission: it must never be afraid of going too far. If its aim is true, it simply heralds what others will later produce, unblushing, with impassive and assertive gravity.
Umberto Eco