If you see the world as gloomily as I see it, the only thing to do is laugh or shoot yourself

If you see the world as gloomily as I see it, the only thing to do is laugh or shoot yourself

John le Carré, the renowned British author of espionage novels, is known for his dark and cynical view of the world. His works often explore the moral ambiguity and complexity of the intelligence world, where betrayal and deception are commonplace. In this context, the quote "If you see the world as gloomily as I see it, the only thing to do is laugh or shoot yourself" encapsulates the bleak outlook that permeates much of le Carré's writing.

Le Carré's characters are often disillusioned and world-weary, grappling with the harsh realities of a world where trust is a rare commodity and loyalty is a luxury. In his novels, the line between good and evil is blurred, and the protagonists are forced to navigate a treacherous landscape where everyone has their own agenda.

The quote suggests a sense of resignation and fatalism, as if the only options in a world filled with darkness and despair are either to find humor in the absurdity of it all or to succumb to the overwhelming sense of hopelessness. This duality of laughter and despair is a recurring theme in le Carré's work, where gallows humor often serves as a coping mechanism for characters who are faced with impossible choices and moral dilemmas.