Quote by John le Carre
I was quite able at the insignificant work I did in MI6, but absolutely dysfunctional in my domestic life. I had no experience of fatherhood. I had no example of marital bliss or the family unit.
Summary
The speaker reflects on their contrasting capabilities in their professional and personal lives. They acknowledge their competence in their work at MI6, yet confess to a complete inability to navigate their domestic responsibilities. Lacking experience in fatherhood and lacking any model of a harmonious marriage or family, the quote highlights their struggle to balance their professional success with a fulfilling personal life.