Set in New York during the Second World War, this novella is narrated by a young writer who becomes fascinated with Holly Golightly, a glamorous neighbour in his building. She lives on parties, charm and the company of rich men, yet keeps her past and her true self carefully hidden. As he gets to know her, he sees the loneliness behind her bright manner. Witty and bittersweet, it is a portrait of reinvention and freedom, and Holly remains one of American fiction's most recognisable characters.
Quotes
[to Paul "Fred" Varjak] It should take you exactly four seconds to cross from here to that door. I'll give you two.
[to Paul "Fred" Varjak] But I am mad about Jose. I honestly think I'd give up smoking if he asked me.
[to Paul "Fred" Varjak] You could always tell what kind of a person a man thinks you are by the earrings he gives you. I must say, the mind reels.
[to Paul "Fred" Varjak] There are certain shades of limelight that can wreck a girl's complexion.