This is the problem. Your guess is different from the author's guess, because nothing is explicitly stated.

For others who did not click the link, the explicit requirements are:

> - Email client can either be in the terminal (i.e. a TUI) or a web app

> - Should have basic email viewing + sending functionality

> - Can use a fake backend (DB, in-memory, etc) or real IMAP/POP/JMAP/etc backend

> - Does not have to handle rich text messages, just plaintext

> Your implementation should take inspiration from existing terminal email tools like aerc, mutt, or even something like himalaya. It should feel fast and intuitive, and you can choose which email flows you'd like to implement.

The word "keyboard" does not appear. Inspiration from X, Y, and Z is entirely subjective, and you should not be punished for not reading the interviewer's mind.