Capote, Truman: 1924 - 1984

Breakfast at Tiffany's, 1958 - Information about the Book

  • General Information
    • This is the story of a young woman fleeing an underage marriage, becoming a sex worker and involving herself in organized crime.
    • Information from Wikipedia
  • Facts
    • Awards: While Capote didn't win any awards specifically for "Breakfast at Tiffany's," the novella itself garnered critical acclaim.

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    • Characters from GradeSaver
    • Characters from LitChart
    • Major Themes
    • Glossary of Terms

    • Freedom vs. Captivity
      Holly Golightly's free-spirited nature and refusal to be "caged" or tied down symbolizes her desire for freedom, represented by her nameless cat. Her visits to Tiffany's represent a longing for stability and belongin.

      Identity and Reinvention
      Holly has reinvented herself, leaving her rural past behind to become a New York socialite. Her true identity remains a mystery throughout the novella.

      Loneliness and Human Connection
      Despite her many acquaintances, Holly keeps people at arm's length, suggesting an underlying loneliness. Her deepening bond with the narrator hints at her desire for genuine connection.

      First-Person Narration
      The story is told from the perspective of the unnamed narrator, allowing readers to see Holly through his eyes while also revealing his own character.

      Symbolism
      Color symbolism is prominent, with Holly associated with yellow roses, her red cat, and "the mean reds" - her term for depression. Tiffany's itself symbolizes the status and belonging Holly wants.

      Frame Narrative
      As a frame story recounted years later, the narrator's memories of Holly remain mysterious, underscoring her mystique.

      In summary, "Breakfast at Tiffany's" explores themes of freedom, identity, loneliness, and human connection through Capote's symbolic use of color, the first-person narration, and the unusual Holly Golightly character.

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    • The novella received significant acclaim for its prose and unique narrative style. Capote's ability to capture the essence of New York City in the 1940s, along with his creation of the memorable character Holly Golightly, has been particularly praised.

      Capote's writing style, characterized by its elegance and wit, contributes to the novella's enduring popularity. His keen observations of society and human behavior resonate with readers.

      "Breakfast at Tiffany's" has had a significant cultural impact. Its title has become synonymous with sophistication and style.

      Some critics have noted the novella's portrayal of certain characters and elements as dated, reflecting the social attitudes of the 1950s. However, it remains a critical and commercial success, continuing to be read and analyzed.

      In summary, "Breakfast at Tiffany's" is celebrated for its literary merit, compelling characters, and insightful social commentary. Truman Capote's creation of Holly Golightly and his vivid depiction of New York City contribute to the novella's lasting legacy in American literature.

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  • Articles
    • That Old Valentine Maker by William Goyen, New York Times, November 2, 1958
    • About "Breakfast at Tiffany's": "The simple, linear narrative of Breakfast at Tiffany's provided Capote with the perfect vehicle to refine his characteristically minimal, naturalistic prose style."
    • The sordid history of Breakfast at Tiffany's: "Capote had sold the novella to Harper’s Bazaar for $2,000 but the magazine later backed out, claiming a story about an independent woman with multiple male friends and a prominent nightlife was just too risqué to publish." Jeffrey Davies; July 2, 2020
    • Manuscripts show how Truman Capote renamed his heroine Holly Golightly: "The heroine was first known as Connie Gustafson. But Holly Golightly is such a magnificent name – it is instantly memorable." The article also mentions other changes Capote made. The Guardian; July 24, 2020