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We were wondering, you see,’ he said in a faraway voice…

“We were wondering, you see,’ he said in a faraway voice, ‘whether you’d ever considered signing up with us on a more regular basis? People who have worked on the outside for us don’t always fit well on the inside. But in your case, we think you might. We don’t pay a lot, and careers tend to be…” quote by John le Carré
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““We were wondering, you see,’ he said in a faraway voice, ‘whether you’d ever considered signing up with us on a more regular basis? People who have worked on the outside for us don’t always fit well on the inside. But in your case, we think you might. We don’t pay a lot, and careers tend to be interrupted. But we do feel it’s an important job, as long as one cares about the end, and not too much about the means.””

John le Carré

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Irregular, low‑pay jobs may be morally important but often lack stability and clear purpose.

In simple terms: Unstable work can be meaningful but precarious.

Key Takeaway

Weigh purpose against practical needs.

Themes

work ethics stability

Mood

thoughtful realistic

Type

reflective cautionary

When to use this quote

  • non‑profit work
  • freelance gigs
  • career transitions
  • mission‑driven projects

Key Concepts

labor economics moral philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What values drive your career choices?
  • How do you balance means and ends?
A Different Perspective

Financial insecurity and ethical ambiguity can cause burnout.

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