In the book "People in Glass Houses" by Shirley Hazzard, the character Svoboda is depicted as an individual of average intelligence, yet he possesses qualities that elevate him above mere mediocrity. Rather than being exceptionally brilliant, he embodies traits of a person who is competent and capable within the realm of everyday life, suggesting that intelligence can manifest in various forms beyond brilliance.

This perspective emphasizes the value of practical intelligence and the significance of navigating life with a sound understanding of one's environment. Hazzard skillfully illustrates that a person's worth is not solely determined by extraordinary intellect but can also stem from an ability to engage thoughtfully with the world and those around them.