What is your idea of perfect happiness? A plate of fettuccine ragù with my kids.

What is your greatest fear? To overcook that plate of fettuccine.

What do you dislike most about your appearance? After 86 years, I’m past disliking parts of my appearance. 

Which living person do you most admire? Kamala Harris. 

Which historical figure do you most identify with? I was raised in Pozzuoli. I’m not sure I identify with any historical figures. I identify with normal people. I identify with my grandmother.

What do you consider the most overrated virtue? Moderation, especially when it comes to desserts. 

What is the trait you most deplore in yourself? I’m a perfectionist; it’s boring.

What is your greatest extravagance? I nap after lunch. 

When and where were you happiest? In the hospital when my children were born. 

What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery? Vanity. 

On what occasion do you lie? When I don’t want to hurt feelings. 

What is your favorite journey? Going to Rome to see my sister or going to Los Angeles to see my children. 

Where would you like to live? I like where I live. 

Which talent would you most like to have? Singing. 

What is your current state of mind? Serene. 

What or who is the greatest love of your life? My two children and four grandchildren. 

What is your favorite occupation? Eating. (Especially pasta and desserts with whipped cream.)

What is your greatest regret? That I didn’t get married in a white dress. 

What is it that you most dislike? Gossip. 

What is the quality you most like in a man? Honesty and humor. 

What is the quality you most like in a woman? Honesty and courage. 

How would you like to die? It’s bad luck even to think of such things. 

Who are your favorite writers? Eduardo De Filippo. Alberto Moravia. Romain Gary. 

Who is your favorite hero of fiction? Madame Rosa. 

What is your most treasured possession? My memories and my experience. 

What are your favorite names? Carlo, Edoardo, Lucia, Leonardo, Vittorio, Beatrice. 

What is your motto? Calma, sangue freddo e fiducia nei mezzi impiegati (Be calm, stay cool, and trust your means).