What are the characteristics of John le Carre spy novels?
Another characteristic is the slow - burning, cerebral nature of the plots. They are not full of high - octane action all the time. Instead, there is a lot of psychological drama, as characters try to outwit each other through intelligence and manipulation.
They are also noted for their detailed and realistic portrayal of the spy world. Le Carre draws on his own experiences in the intelligence service. His descriptions of espionage operations, the bureaucracy, and the constant paranoia within the intelligence community make the novels seem very authentic.
John le Carre's spy novels are known for their complex characters. His spies are not just action heroes but often morally ambiguous individuals caught in the web of Cold War politics. For example, in 'Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy', the main character, George Smiley, is a middle - aged, unassuming man who has to navigate the murky waters of the British intelligence service full of double - agents.