Knitting King Ottavio&Nbsp; Missoni: Life On Wool Line

Ottavio Missoni, the knitting king of Italy, published an autobiography on the occasion of his 90 birthday. In the book, he reviewed his legendary life in a humorous tone, from a prisoner of war who lost his hometown to a young runner, and then to a fashion designer.

The studio of Ottavio Missoni is full of photos, hand drawings, knitting patterns and horticultural books, standing at the window and overlooking the Alps. Recently, the knitted king of Italy celebrated his 90 birthday. On the birthday, in addition to drinking happily, the old gentleman also received a big gift -- an autobiography "Una Vita Sul Filo Di Lana" (the life on the wool line) published by Paolo Scandaletti and Rizzoli publishing house. Besides the original edition of Italy, the English version is also about to come out.

In an interview with reporters, the 90 year old Ottavio told his own story. Legend Experience, and have been placed in him. soul Deep, supporting his perseverance, fearlessness and tranquility.

Q: birthday is an important moment for people to assess their life. Is that why you publish new books at this time?

A: I never used autobiography as a literary work. I just wrote down my life story word by word, and then put them together for about a month and a half. Do you believe it? Paolo Scandaletti, who wrote for me, has written Galileo's biography, and Galileo's biography is actually easier than mine. In a word, I am a living in the present and never set up for myself. target Nor plan for the future. I am very contented and never disappointed.

Q: during World War II, you were expelled from your hometown (zhalal City, Yugoslavia), participated in the battle of Alan, and had been a prisoner for several years in Egypt. But you do not regard these experiences as suffering. On the contrary, there is a light sense of humor between the lines of this autobiography. What do you think is shaping your character?

A: I think most of human character is hereditary. In this book, I have paid tribute to my mother many times. She married from abroad, and my father was a naval captain sailing all over the world. Now I understand that my mother has devoted her whole life to two children, and she cares nothing about it. She was very quiet and peaceful, with a halo of madonna on her body. Just like tooth decay, character is inheritable. I think I inherited her character. I also hope that my child can inherit this kind of introversion and tranquility.

Q: you used to be a good runner. Exercise is very important in your life, but it has also been a drag on your studies. Do you regret it?

A: not at all. Without the bondage of school education, I freely chose my own way. My experience, the words I read, my friends, and even my drunken bars are my schools. I am a running talent, called "the son of Apollo". At the age of 16, he entered the national team and still holds the world record for the 16 - year - old youngsters in the 400 metre race. Exercise made me learn to be disciplined. It was a gift from God.

Q: what do you think of fashion? What do you think of the company you founded? What do you think of your child's inheritance?

A: I get inspiration from everywhere. Fashion is everywhere in magazines, women, streets and parties. Think of the fact that in 1975 there were only 7 designers in Milan. So the fashion industry is open to all people. I think it's a good thing. As for my children, if they ask me for advice, I will mention it, but never interfere with them. I never forced them to expand my career, but thankfully, they volunteered to stay in the company, and we all agreed that Missoni would always be a family business. We do not have enough strength to build Missoni into a large group. I often say to them, "of course you can build a one hundred thousand ton ship, but only if you have to drive it, and you have a team of excellent crew members." I am proud of Missoni: it continues to be profitable, giving me satisfaction and maintaining good reputation.

Q: how do you deal with financial problems? In your book, you say, your knitted sportswear has been sold at a loss, and then things are getting better. But we see that you never seem to be troubled by money.

A: it's about genetics. There is anarchic blood flowing in my body. I do not want to be driven by others, nor want to be above others. Money means independence to me. My wife Rosita once said that she would be satisfied if she had eggs and vegetables. I totally agree. Fashion and painting are also true to me. I never deliberately flaunt fashion, just like I never follow the routines of painting. I draw only what I want to paint. I never wanted to enter the fashion world, but I just rushed in. The success of Missoni depends on word of mouth. We create different products, some people say that they are pioneering works, some people say that they are revolution in the history of clothing, but it is because we have no routines and never care about rules. It is always my nature to act in the opposite direction.