Breakfast at Tiffany's Celebrates 50th Anniversary

A classic story turns 50 this month. A story of a tangy, free-spirited, charlatan making her way in a big city, New York City by depending on the kindness of rich men. I think those are the necessary attributes to make it in expensive and daunting NYC when you're a hillbilly like Holly Golightly, trying to get ahead in the great big world beyond the hills of Texas.

Since the movie release, the novella, which was "moderately successful" during its time has become a classic over time. Why? I think Stephen McNabb, managing editor of the book's publishing company, stated it best:

"I recently reread the novel and was struck by how easily I was able to identify with the time and the place and the characters, with New York as Capote describes it," he says. "And how kids, young adults, newcomers relate to the city, and we all hope always will. We all know people like Holly Golightly,maybe because they've been influenced by her, but I think because Capote created a powerful character out of a universal type." [USA Today]

USA Today wrote an article on the 50th anniversary tracing the history of the book, the movie, the venerable Tiffany's and all the players. They also show a short movie clip. Below are the Cliffnotes highlights:

* The book was published in 1958 and the movie followed three years later.

* The author of Breakfast at Tiffany's is Truman Capote. Yes, that Capote.

* Capote didn't like the movie but he loved the attention it brought to him and his book.

* Capote chose Marilyn Monroe to play Holly Golightly but Hollywood picked Audrey Hepburn when Monroe declined. Her drama coach insisted that the role of call girl was not good for her image. [Obviously this was before the world knew of her affairs with the Kennedy boys].

* Hollywood changed the ending of the story in the movie. Why do they always do that?

To find out the true ending, read the article, or better yet: Order the movie, and the book and treat yourself to a fine piece of jewelry from Tiffany's. Men--this trio package would make an ideal birthday, anniversary or Christmas gift!!! Click below to order all three! Voila--that's quick and easy shopping!!!

THE BOOK:


THE MOVIE:


THE JEWELRY

Tiffany's even came out with a new coffee table book as mentioned in the USA Today article, titled Tiffany Design, 170 Years of Design. The book retails for $50, but you can get it here for $30.