page 98 of 784 of In the First Circle

The best voice encryption system ever invented is a man saying one thing to a man when he really means something else. The message is received loud and clear when everyone gets the message.

The theme here is communication of all kinds, perceived, imagined and real.

Bobynin’s rant to Abakumov is the very thing you want to tell your idiot CEO who has no idea what the hell goes on in the company they run.