John le Carré, born David Cornwell, forged a successful writing career following his stint as a British intelligence officer. His transition from intelligence to writing was fortuitously timed, given that his cover had been blown by Kim Philby’s defection to the KGB. His third novel, “The Spy Who Came in from the Cold” (1963), catapulted him to international acclaim.
In the 1970s, le Carré, riding on the success of his novels, embarked on a journey to Asia to research characters and narrate the Cold War in a different context. This led to the conceptualization of his novel, “The Honourable Schoolboy,” which prompted him to travel to Hong Kong in February 1974.
Le Carré’s deep exploration of Asia happened across two trips, one in 1974 and another in 1975. He used Hong Kong as a base and ventured into Northeast Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia. Prior to his first visit, he had submitted the final drafts of “Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy,” which would soon become a global sensation. However, a small discrepancy in the book— an outdated description of a Star Ferry ride in Hong Kong— led to frantic last-minute revisions.
The author’s tours across Asia introduced him to intriguing characters and experiences. Le Carré met many foreign correspondents, spies, and colorful characters like Peter Simms, Dick “Cardinal” Hughes, and Peter Stafford, among others. These encounters significantly influenced the characters and narrative in “The Honourable Schoolboy.”
Le Carré’s travels were marked by extensive fieldwork. From observing the workings of the Hong Kong Jockey Club to watching fleets of junks entering Victoria Harbour, he meticulously absorbed the nuances of life in Asia. These rich experiences provided the backdrop for his novel, contributing to its authenticity and vivid narrative.
The memorable characters in “The Honourable Schoolboy,” like Jerry Westerby and William “Old” Craw, were inspired by people le Carré met during his travels. Westerby, a reporter and retired agent, bore a striking resemblance to the gregarious and peripatetic Peter Simms. Similarly, the character of Old Craw was a near caricature of the lovable raconteur, Dick Hughes.
Following the release of “The Honourable Schoolboy,” le Carré became a keen traveller, deeply researching every setting before penning his narratives. He ventured into various regions, from Israel and Palestine to Latin America and Africa, drawing inspiration for his subsequent works.
Although he never returned to write about Southeast Asia or Hong Kong, “The Honourable Schoolboy” stands as a testament to le Carré’s immersive research style and remains a cherished piece of literature for readers with Asian connections. It’s an example of how the author masterfully blended his experiences and encounters into a compelling narrative, capturing the essence of the times and places he ventured into.
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