John le Carré's Son Revives His Late Dad's Beloved Spy

In this podcast episode, Nick Harkaway dives into the complex world of George Smiley, navigating the challenge of writing a novel while living in his father's literary shadow. He reimagines the intricate themes of espionage, relationships, and family legacies. Harkaway discusses the deep-seated fears that motivate spies like Smiley and explores the subtle dynamics of characters, especially Anne Smiley. He reflects on how personal history shapes storytelling and uses anecdotes to honor his father's legacy. Throughout the conversation, Harkaway reveals the delicate balance of fear, trust, and deception that defines the spy genre, engaging listeners with his insights.