Meaning: The quote "I'm really a library man, or second-hand book man" by John le Carré, the renowned British author of espionage novels, reflects his deep appreciation for books and the written word. In this concise statement, le Carré expresses his affinity for libraries and second-hand books, suggesting a preference for the old and well-worn over the shiny and new. His words convey a sense of nostalgia, a reverence for the past, and a profound connection to the literary world.

John le Carré, whose real name was David Cornwell, was born in 1931 and passed away in 2020. Throughout his prolific career, he wrote numerous acclaimed novels that delved into the world of espionage, international intrigue, and the human psyche. His works, including "The Spy Who Came in from the Cold," "Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy," and "The Night Manager," have earned him a reputation as a master storyteller and a literary giant in the realm of spy fiction.

In the quote, le Carré's identification as a "library man" speaks to his love for the institution of libraries. Libraries have long been revered as sanctuaries of knowledge, offering a vast array of books and resources for individuals to explore. For le Carré, the library represents a treasure trove of wisdom, history, and imagination. It is a place where the past and present converge, where one can immerse oneself in the thoughts and experiences of others through the written word.

Furthermore, le Carré's self-identification as a "second-hand book man" reveals his distinct fondness for used and pre-owned books. Unlike brand-new books fresh off the press, second-hand books often bear the marks of previous readers – dog-eared pages, marginal notes, and worn covers. These signs of use impart a sense of history and character to each volume, giving them a unique appeal. For le Carré, second-hand books embody a tangible connection to the hands and minds that have held them before, creating a sense of continuity and shared experience through the act of reading.

The quote also reflects le Carré's humility and lack of pretension. By aligning himself with libraries and second-hand books, he eschews the trappings of materialism and commercialism often associated with the literary world. Instead, he embraces the simple pleasures of reading and the unadorned beauty of well-loved books. His words convey a sense of authenticity and sincerity, emphasizing the intrinsic value of literature apart from its market appeal or monetary worth.

In essence, le Carré's quote encapsulates his deep-seated passion for literature and his genuine love for the written word. It speaks to the enduring significance of libraries as bastions of knowledge and the enduring appeal of second-hand books as repositories of shared human experience. Through his eloquent declaration, le Carré invites readers to join him in celebrating the timeless allure of books and the profound impact they have on our lives.

In conclusion, John le Carré's quote "I'm really a library man, or second-hand book man" serves as a poignant testament to his reverence for literature and the enduring appeal of libraries and second-hand books. His words resonate with a sense of nostalgia, humility, and genuine appreciation for the written word, inviting readers to embrace the richness and depth of the literary world.