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.
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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.