Breakfast at Tiffany's

Definition

Breakfast at Tiffany's is a novella by Truman Capote, published in 1958, that tells the story of Holly Golightly, a young woman in New York City who leads a glamorous yet precarious life. The narrative explores themes of love, identity, and the complexities of human relationships, showcasing Capote's signature style that blends rich characterization with an intimate look at the lives of his characters.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Breakfast at Tiffany's was originally published as a novella in 1958 and later adapted into a famous film in 1961 starring Audrey Hepburn as Holly Golightly.
2. Capote's writing in this work showcases his ability to blend humor with poignant observations about life, love, and the search for belonging.
3. The relationship between Holly and the unnamed narrator is central to the story, reflecting themes of companionship and unrequited love.
4. Capote's portrayal of Holly Golightly has been interpreted as both a critique and celebration of the carefree lifestyle of New York City's social elite.
5. The novella explores the idea of 'living for the moment' while also confronting the underlying loneliness that can accompany such a lifestyle.

Review Questions

• How does Truman Capote develop the character of Holly Golightly throughout Breakfast at Tiffany's?
  • Capote develops Holly Golightly as a multifaceted character through her interactions with the narrator and other characters, revealing her vulnerabilities beneath her glamorous facade. He uses rich descriptive language and dialogue to showcase her wit and charm while gradually uncovering her insecurities and desire for genuine connection. This duality makes Holly both relatable and enigmatic, inviting readers to empathize with her struggles in navigating love and identity.
• Analyze how the setting of New York City influences the themes presented in Breakfast at Tiffany's.
  • New York City plays a crucial role in shaping the themes of Breakfast at Tiffany's by serving as both a glamorous playground and a backdrop for personal struggles. The bustling environment highlights the allure of aspiration and success, while also contrasting with the characters' feelings of isolation and disillusionment. This dynamic setting underscores the tension between external appearances and internal realities, emphasizing how location can impact one's identity and relationships.
• Evaluate the significance of unrequited love as portrayed in Breakfast at Tiffany's and its broader implications on human relationships.
  • Unrequited love is a central theme in Breakfast at Tiffany's, primarily illustrated through the narrator's feelings for Holly. This dynamic reflects a broader commentary on human relationships, emphasizing how longing and desire can coexist with emotional distance. Capote presents unrequited love as both beautiful and painful, ultimately leading to profound moments of self-discovery for both characters. The exploration of this theme invites readers to reflect on their own experiences with love and connection, highlighting the complexities inherent in human interactions.

Related terms

Holly Golightly: The protagonist of Breakfast at Tiffany's, Holly is a charming and enigmatic socialite who navigates the complexities of her relationships while searching for her own identity.

Truman Capote:

An American author known for his distinctive literary style and works that often explore themes of loneliness, social class, and the human condition, including In Cold Blood and Other Voices, Other Rooms.

New York City: The setting for Breakfast at Tiffany's, New York City serves as a vibrant backdrop that reflects the glamour and struggles of its characters, highlighting themes of aspiration and disillusionment.