BREAKFAST AT TIFFANY'S

Inspired by the recent Tiffany’s exhibition in London, Truman Capote’s classic novella ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’ makes an indulgent treat of a read for book clubs. Also a wonderful excuse to combine with the nostalgic adaptation starring Audrey Hepburn and George Peppard.

Set in New York City in the 1940s, ‘Breakfast At Tiffany’s’ tells the story of Holly Golightly as witnessed by a young aspiring author who is bewitched by his mysterious Brownstone neighbour. Holly Golighty is an enigma and probably one of Capote’s most famous characters who has charmed and intrigued readers, as well as captivating us on screen (thanks to Hepburn's interpretation). Pursued by Mafia gangsters and unsavoury characters Holly leads a precarious life, balancing charm with resilience and grit. The narrator, clearly besotted by Holly, draws us into his obsession and it is easy to fall in love with her damaged and irrational behaviour.

As Capote explains “The main reason I wrote about Holly, outside of the fact that I liked her so much, was that she was such a symbol of all these girls who come to New York and spin in the sun for a moment like May flies and then disappear,” he said. “I wanted to rescue one girl from that anonymity and preserve her for prosperity”. Capote certainly achieves this!

Whilst the book is a one sitting read, Capote is masterful with his character development including those around Holly such as Joe Bell, the bar owner, Mr Yunioshi the 'Californian photographer' as well as his exquisite cast of cameo hangers on. Much of the enjoyment reading this novel is in Copote’s ability to capture the reader’s imagination with his tightly scripted story and beautifully crafted dialogue.

The book abounds in memorable quotes that Den readers picked out and the novel worked brilliantly as an audible version.
'No matter where you run, you run into yourself'.
'Home is where you feel at home. I'm still looking'.
'I want to still be me when I wake up one fine morning and have breakfast at Tiffany’s'

Interestingly, Tiffany’s is mentioned briefly by Holly although it certainly captures the sparkle and attraction of her character as well as a befitting title for the novel.

'Breakfast at Tiffany's' was thoroughly enjoyed by all of us in the Den and it a great way to get back into your book club this autumn.