**Nick Harkaway Revives John le Carré’s Legacy with Smiley Return**

Renowned British novelist John le Carré, who passed away in 2020, left an enduring literary footprint and a poignant mission for his family. As le Carré’s son Nick Harkaway recalls, the family felt "an obligation to try to keep the books read, to keep the name alive, but, more than anything else, to keep the books in circulation." The family decided that the most fitting tribute to le Carré would be to revive his most cherished character, the British spymaster George Smiley.

Nick Harkaway, an established author with several novels to his name, was initially hesitant when his brother suggested he continue Smiley’s story himself. Although he had strong reservations, Harkaway ultimately found the challenge compelling. "In that moment, all the reasons why I wouldn't – the extraordinary challenge, the weight of literary history – became the reasons why I would," he explains.

Harkaway's latest novel, "Karla's Choice," is set in 1963, bridging the gap between le Carré's celebrated works, "The Spy Who Came in from the Cold" and "Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy." The book channels a retired Smiley called back into action for a simple interview that evolves into a far-reaching intrigue. The novel also delves into the backstory of Smiley’s KGB adversary, Karla, adding depth to their infamous rivalry.

Reflecting on the writing process, Harkaway describes it as a form of literary apprenticeship. "I learned writing from him by osmosis, but we never really talked about writing very much," he says. The act of working with his father’s characters offered him a way to connect with and learn from his literary legacy.

Recollections of his childhood illustrate the peculiar life of being le Carré's son. Born in 1972, Harkaway grew up immersed in the creative process of his father's writings. He vividly remembers his father reading new drafts at the breakfast table, a daily ritual that profoundly shaped his own command of language.

Harkaway also reflects on the emotional journey of revisiting his father's world. While he didn't experience any mystical sense of his father’s presence, the process of writing brought a deep sense of unity and emotional connection. Despite the occasional pangs of grief, he found solace in standing where his father once stood, steering the same literary ship.

John le Carré's realistic portrayal of espionage, contrasting sharply with the action-hero stereotypes of the time, made characters like George Smiley compelling. Smiley, an unremarkable figure outwardly, is depicted as an empathetic, intelligent individual capable of unraveling complex human and political intricacies. Harkaway continues this legacy, capturing the essence of an everyman who navigates a world laden with moral ambiguities.

In his own career, Harkaway chose the pseudonym after observing his father’s success with one. Seeking a shield from the public gaze, he picked "Harkaway" almost whimsically. This decision underscores his understanding of his father’s life, balancing public expectations with personal identity.

The revival of George Smiley in "Karla's Choice" not only preserves le Carré's cherished character but also fortifies the literary bridge between father and son, ensuring that Smiley's tales will continue to captivate new generations.