The Secret Life of John le Carre

The Secret Life of John le Carré, by Adam Sisman, was published in 2015 and reveals a hitherto-hidden perspective on the life and work of the spy-turned-author. It offers reflections on the difficult relationship between biographer and subject and adds a necessary coda to the life and work of this complex, driven, restless man.

Format: Hardback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 12 October 2023
Publisher: Profile Books Ltd

A captivating and insightful appendix that delves into the enigmatic mind of the man behind George Smiley, John le Carré, has been named one of the Best Books of the Year 2023 by various prestigious publications. This remarkable addition to the literature on le Carré offers fresh perspectives on the author's life and writing, illuminating his complex character and artistic process.

Published in 2015, Adam Sisman's definitive biography of le Carré has already shed light on many aspects of the elusive spy-turned-novelist's life. However, le Carré remained resolute in his desire to keep certain aspects of his private life hidden, at least during his lifetime. The Secret Life of John le Carré is a captivating exploration of what was left out, providing thoughtful reflections on the delicate relationship between biographer and subject.

In this captivating book, Sisman delves into le Carré's enigmatic personality, exploring his complex relationships, his struggles with identity, and his unwavering commitment to his craft. The author meticulously reconstructs le Carré's life, from his early years as a spy to his successful career as a novelist, shedding light on the influences and experiences that shaped his work.

One of the most fascinating aspects of The Secret Life of John le Carré is its exploration of le Carré's private life. The author reveals that the novelist conducted a string of love affairs over four decades, using tradecraft that he had learned as a spy to keep these relationships secret. These affairs introduced both jeopardy and excitement into what was otherwise a quiet and ordered life, and le Carré seemed to require the stimulus they provided in order to write.

However, this meant deceiving those closest to him, including his wife and children. Betrayal became a recurrent theme in le Carré's work, reflecting his own experiences and the complexities of human relationships. Sisman's biography sheds light on these themes, providing a deeper understanding of the man behind the characters.

The Secret Life of John le Carré also offers valuable insights into the biographer's craft. Sisman discusses the challenges of capturing the essence of a complex and enigmatic subject, as well as the ethical considerations involved in revealing personal information about someone's life. The author navigates these complexities with sensitivity and respect, providing a balanced and comprehensive account of le Carré's life and work.

In conclusion, The Secret Life of John le Carré is a must-read for fans of le Carré and anyone interested in the art of biography. This captivating book offers new perspectives on the enigmatic author, shedding light on his private life and artistic process. With its thoughtful analysis and meticulous research, Sisman has crafted a definitive account of the life and work of this complex and remarkable man.

Weight: 320g
Dimension: 218 x 142 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800817784
Edition number: Main