About the exhibition
Discover the enduring legacy of one of the greatest writers of the past century.
Tradecraft draws upon the vast archive of John le Carré, otherwise known as David Cornwell. Held at the Bodleian Libraries, this material – much of which is displayed for the first time – spans Cornwell’s entire life and career, from his time as a student at Lincoln College, Oxford, to drafts penned in his final weeks.
This exhibition offers unique insights into the working methods of the writer who shaped the modern spy novel. 'Tradecraft' is a word le Carré used to describe the techniques of espionage, but it might also be applied to his own skilled craft as a writer and social commentator.
Co-curated by le Carré’s collaborator and friend Professor Federico Varese and Dr Jessica Douthwaite with the support of the le Carré family, John le Carré: Tradecraft will provide a multifaceted portrait of the author's life and creative process, featuring research, drafts, and corrections for his novels, non-fiction, and adaptations, as well as personal correspondence.
Highlights include annotated manuscripts of Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, The Constant Gardener, and The Little Drummer Girl; previously unseen family photographs; original sketches and watercolour paintings; and letters to fans and friends.
