I began writing when I was still in the British Foreign Service, and it was then understood that even if you wrote about butterfly collecting, you used another name.
John Le CarreRead
We've had enough." He took back the report and jammed it under his arm. "We've had a bellyful, in fact." "And like everyone who's had enough," said Control as Alleline noisily left the room, "he wants more.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that when one reaches a limit, they often still desire more, reflecting a paradox of human satisfaction.
In this quote, John Le Carré explores the complex nature of human desires and dissatisfaction. The phrase 'We've had enough' implies a feeling of saturation or fatigue, yet the response emphasizes a contrasting truth: that reaching a limit can ignite a stronger craving for more. This duality speaks to the human condition, which often finds itself in a cycle of wanting despite having enough, revealing the insatiable nature of desire and ambition.
Themes
DesireSatisfactionHuman ConditionParadoxAmbition
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about consumerism and the endless desire for more material goods.
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If I had to put a name to it, I would wish that all my books were entertainments. I think the first thing you've got to do is grab the reader by the ear, and make him sit down and listen. Make him laugh, make him feel. We all want to be entertained at a very high level.
John Le CarreRead
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