A Cat and a Special Relationship
Xesca shared her life with a cat, a silent companion who, however, did not have a name. Although her affection for the feline was undeniable, she felt that she did not have the right to give it one, since it was not truly hers. This symbolic connection reflected a complex relationship of possession and freedom.
The Footprint of Truman Capote
An avid reader, Xesca always returned to the works of Truman Capote, whom she considered a pillar of 20th-century literature. She often reminded me that his innovative style was more valuable than any academic training she could receive. ‘Contemporary fiction owes a lot to Capote,’ she would say.
A refuge on the Costa Brava
In search of tranquillity away from the hustle and bustle of New York, Capote found refuge on the Costa Brava for three summers. Accompanied by his partner and a retinue of animals and belongings, he dedicated himself to the creation of ‘In Cold Blood’, a story that would mark his career. This period in Palamós was crucial to his creative process.
The Tragedy of Marilyn Monroe
One morning, while leafing through the newspaper on his terrace, Capote received the devastating news of the death of Marilyn Monroe, one of his muses. Although he had dreamed of her as the protagonist of ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’, fate had other plans, and the resulting film never lived up to his expectations.
Shared Passions Lists
Xesca and I spent time creating lists of our favorite things, from music to movies. One of the most prominent categories was, of course, the work of Capote. His stories, imbued with a deep understanding of human nature, resonated in our conversations.
Capote’s Literary Legacy
Among his works, ‘Music for Chameleons’ and ‘Answered Prayers’ were the most debated. The controversy surrounding the latter, revealing secrets of the New York elite, marked a before and after in the author’s life, leading him to a state of isolation and sadness.
The Value of ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’
Xesca was adamant about her choice of Breakfast at Tiffany’s over In Cold Blood. For her, this work encapsulated the essence of 1950s New York society, presented through the unforgettable character of Holly Golightly, a symbol of duality between strength and vulnerability.
An Unforgettable Character
Holly, with her charisma and complexity, became a literary reference that Xesca deeply admired. Her characteristics resonated with the concerns of modernity, and her story was a reflection of the internal struggles we all face.
Rediscovery of a Classic
Recently, a new edition of Breakfast at Tiffany’s came into my hands, and I decided to dive into its pages. After a sleepless night, I finally understood the connection between Xesca’s cat and her lack of a name: it symbolized a deep connection with the ephemeral and the elusive, a reminder that sometimes, true love involves learning to let go.