In "The Polysyllabic Spree," Nick Hornby reflects on his insights gained from reading "David Copperfield" by Charles Dickens. He notes that the character Dick Swiveller in "The Old Curiosity Shop" served as a significant influence on P.G. Wodehouse's literary work, suggesting that much of Wodehouse's style can be traced back to Dickens' creation. This connection highlights how one author's characters can ripple through literary history, shaping the works of future writers.

Additionally, Hornby points out the characters Spenlow and Jorkins in "David Copperfield" as early examples of the good cop/bad cop dynamic in fiction. This observation reveals Dickens' innovative storytelling techniques and character archetypes that predate the conventional uses of such tropes in modern narratives. Hornby’s comments underscore Dickens' lasting impact on literature and the evolution of character roles.