Fresh Air
John le Carré's Son Revives His Late Dad's Beloved Spy
Oct 23, 2024
In this engaging discussion, Nick Harkaway, author and son of the legendary John le Carré, delves into his new George Smiley novel, 'Carla’s Choice.' He shares anecdotes of growing up with his father's espionage stories and the challenges of honoring that legacy while finding his own voice. Harkaway also reflects on themes of identity, deception, and personal loss that influence his writing. With a flair for storytelling, he explores the evolving nature of spy narratives and the emotional complexities tied to his family's literary heritage.
46:52
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Quick takeaways
- Nick Harkaway embraced the challenge of writing a new Smiley novel to honor his father's legacy while infusing his own voice.
- The character George Smiley, designed to be an ordinary yet complex individual, highlights the moral dilemmas faced by spies.
Deep dives
The Legacy of John Le Carré and George Smiley
John Le Carré, a renowned author, created the character of George Smiley, a seemingly ordinary yet brilliant British spymaster, known for his depth and complexity. Smiley's character serves as a counterpoint to the typical action hero archetype found in spy fiction, embodying the essence of everyman while possessing exceptional intelligence and emotional insight. In a new novel, 'Carla's Choice,' Smiley is called back into action after retirement, exploring themes of regret and the moral complexities of espionage. The story not only revitalizes Smiley but also serves as an origin tale for his KGB nemesis, known as Carla, enriching the established universe of Le Carré's works.
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