Meaning: John le Carré, the pen name of David Cornwell, was a renowned British author best known for his espionage novels. The quote you provided reflects his perspective on writing and the importance of entertaining his readers. In this quote, le Carré expresses his desire for his books to be "entertainments," highlighting the significance of capturing the reader's attention and engaging their emotions.

When le Carré mentions that he would wish all his books were "entertainments," he is not simply referring to light-hearted amusement or superficial diversion. Instead, he is emphasizing the power of storytelling to captivate and engage the audience on a profound level. By using the term "entertainments," le Carré conveys his intention to deliver narratives that are not only gripping and compelling but also emotionally resonant and thought-provoking.

The statement "I think the first thing you've got to do is grab the reader by the ear, and make him sit down and listen" underscores le Carré's belief in the fundamental importance of holding the reader's attention from the very beginning. This approach aligns with the notion that compelling storytelling requires an immediate and strong connection with the audience. By metaphorically "grabbing the reader by the ear," le Carré emphasizes the need to command their attention and establish a compelling narrative that compels them to listen and engage with the story.

Furthermore, when le Carré mentions "Make him laugh, make him feel," he acknowledges the multifaceted nature of entertainment. Effective storytelling, in his view, should evoke a range of emotions in the reader, from joy and amusement to deeper, more profound sentiments. By aiming to elicit emotional responses, le Carré seeks to create a rich and immersive reading experience that resonates with his audience on an emotional level.

The final part of the quote, "We all want to be entertained at a very high level," underscores le Carré's belief in the capacity of literature to provide meaningful and enriching entertainment. By emphasizing the desire for high-quality entertainment, he sets a high standard for the level of engagement and satisfaction he aims to deliver through his writing. This sentiment reflects his commitment to producing literature that not only entertains but also elevates and enriches the reader's experience.

John le Carré's approach to writing as expressed in this quote highlights his dedication to crafting narratives that go beyond mere diversion, aiming instead to captivate, engage, and emotionally resonate with his audience. His emphasis on the power of storytelling to entertain at a high level underscores his belief in the profound impact that literature can have on its readers. In essence, le Carré's quote encapsulates his aspiration to create works that not only entertain but also leave a lasting impression on those who experience them.