CHARLIE ROSE

ET CETERA

PROUST QUESTIONNAIRE

For almost 20 years, Charlie Rose— with his eponymous television show—has been a pole-star for great minds. Here, the notable interviewer, who was awarded the Léegion d’Honneur this month, sits on the other side of the question mark

What is your most marked characteristic? Lunosity.

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

Wise doctor, perfect woman, adorable dog, bottle of Petrus,

sleek boat.

What is your greatest fear?

Not enough time.

What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?

Can’t say “No.”

What is the trait you most deplore in others?

Arrogance.

Which living person do you most admire?

Warren Buffett.

What is your greatest extravagance?

Technology.

What is your current state of mind?

Optimistic.

What do you consider the most overrated virtue?

Pride.

On what occasion do you lie?

To save a life.

What is the quality you most like in a man?

Wisdom.

What is the quality you most like in a woman?

Passion.

Which words or phrases do you most overuse?

“Fuck.”

What or who is the greatest love of your life?

She knows.

When and where were you happiest?

When I get up.

Which talent would you most like to have?

Perfect pitch.

What is your most treasured possession?

A photo of my parents and me when I was one week old.

What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery?

Unable to express your ideas, pain, love.

What is your favorite occupation?

Mine.

What is your most marked characteristic?

Curiosity.

What do you most value in your friends?

Loyalty.

Who is your favorite hero of fiction?

Atticus Finch.

Who are your heroes in real life?

Single mothers.

What is it that you most dislike?

Laziness.

What is your greatest regret?

Saying “No.”

How would you like to die?

Wise doctor, perfect woman, adorable dog, bottle of Petrus, sleek boat.

What is your motto?

“At the end, regret only what you didn’t do.”