key term - Breakfast at Tiffany's

Definition

Breakfast at Tiffany's is a novella written by Truman Capote, published in 1958, that explores themes of love, loneliness, and the quest for identity through the life of its eccentric protagonist, Holly Golightly. This work is significant not only for its literary merit but also for its cultural impact, inspiring a popular film adaptation and influencing various artistic expressions, particularly in American literature and the arts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Breakfast at Tiffany's was originally published as a serialized novella in Harper's magazine before being released as a book.
2. The story is narrated by an unnamed writer who becomes fascinated with his neighbor Holly Golightly, capturing their unconventional friendship.
3. The novella was adapted into a successful film in 1961, starring Audrey Hepburn, which further popularized the story and characters.
4. Holly Golightly is often seen as a symbol of the free-spirited lifestyle of New York City in the 1950s, reflecting themes of independence and self-discovery.
5. Truman Capote's writing style in Breakfast at Tiffany's blends lyrical prose with elements of humor and social commentary, making it a distinctive piece in American literature.

Review Questions

• How does Holly Golightly embody the themes of identity and loneliness present in Breakfast at Tiffany's?
  • Holly Golightly embodies the themes of identity and loneliness through her complex character as someone who navigates the glamorous yet isolating world of New York City. Despite her vivacious personality and social charm, Holly struggles with her sense of self, often using superficial relationships to mask her deeper feelings of emptiness. Her quest for love and acceptance highlights the loneliness that can accompany the pursuit of personal freedom and identity.
• In what ways did Truman Capote's life influence the writing of Breakfast at Tiffany's and its portrayal of society?
  • Truman Capote's life experiences significantly influenced his writing of Breakfast at Tiffany's, particularly his observations of New York City's elite social scene. Growing up in a tumultuous environment and later mingling with high society provided him with insights into the complexities of human relationships and societal expectations. His portrayal of Holly Golightly reflects both the allure and the pitfalls of fame and fortune, mirroring Capote’s own interactions with the glamorous yet often superficial world he critiqued.
• Evaluate how Breakfast at Tiffany's has influenced contemporary literature and art, particularly regarding character representation and themes.
  • Breakfast at Tiffany's has had a lasting impact on contemporary literature and art by reshaping how complex characters, especially women like Holly Golightly, are portrayed. The novella's exploration of themes such as independence, love, and societal norms has inspired countless writers and artists to create multifaceted characters who challenge traditional roles. This influence can be seen in various modern works that emphasize character depth over stereotypes, encouraging readers to reflect on issues related to identity and belonging in their own lives.

Related terms

Truman Capote:

An American author known for his unique narrative style and works such as In Cold Blood and Other Voices, Other Rooms, contributing significantly to American literature.

Holly Golightly: The main character in Breakfast at Tiffany's, representing the complexities of modern womanhood and societal expectations during the 1950s.

Film Adaptation: The process of transforming a written work into a movie; the film adaptation of Breakfast at Tiffany's starred Audrey Hepburn and became a classic.