The Atlantic Out Loud

Chasing le Carré in Corfu

Jul 23, 2025
Dive into the enchanting world of Corfu, where a mysterious woman captures the attention of an observer. Explore the island's rich history as a haven for spies, illustrated through the eyes of MI6 agent Magnus. Discover how personal identity intertwines with Corfu's colonial past, revealing tensions between tradition and modernity. Delve into the legacy of John le Carré, whose experiences in Greece shaped his writing amidst the island's chaotic beauty. Each tale weaves together themes of memory, espionage, and self-discovery.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
ANECDOTE

Mysterious Woman in Corfu

  • A woman in a pink coat walking slowly and carrying her handbag with purpose is repeatedly observed in Corfu, evoking a mysterious or guarded presence.
  • This image sets a tone of subtle surveillance and hidden stories fitting the espionage theme of Le Carré's work set in Corfu.
INSIGHT

Unlikely Spy Setting: Corfu

  • Corfu is a small, unlikely place for spy activity, but it fits Le Carré's theme of seeking those who want to avoid being found.
  • Espionage stories often lead to unexpected or less obvious locations rather than obvious major cities.
ANECDOTE

Le Carré’s Troubled Father Story

  • John le Carré's difficult relationship with his criminal father inspired the character Magnus and the plot of A Perfect Spy.
  • He struggled for 25 years to write about his father until he framed the story as an espionage thriller.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app