Which lesson has been the hardest to learn?

That negative self-talk and negative self-image have a real impact on how you live your life. I think it’s important to spend time analysing the way you speak to yourself, and why.

What food sums up happiness?

Pasta with butter and cheese. And if you’re going to be extra, truffle oil. Big time.

What have you never understood?

I have never understood people’s intolerance. If it doesn’t affect you directly, why do you care about it? Just let people live.

What is the one thing you want to know before you die?

I’d like to look back at my life, remember all the times I was confused, see a line running through everything and be like, ‘Ohhh, that’s why that happened.’ It would be nice to look back and see the full tapestry and be like, ‘Oh yeah, I get it.’

Are you scared of dying or what happens when you die?

Not really, unless I’m in a plane and there’s turbulence. Otherwise, there’s too much to be worried about when you’re living.

Quinoa or Quavers?

Neither. Pasta with butter and cheese, all the way.

Anya Taylor-Joy is the face of Viktor & Rolf’s new fragrance Flowerbomb Dew, £56 for 30ml, available at Debenhams and retailers nationwide

Book cover: Alma Classics

Photography: Txema Yeste

Anya Taylor-Joy on the very real impact of negative self-talk