All Of It Podcast Summary: "Truman Capote Turns 100"

Episode Release Date: December 4, 2024
Host: Alison Stewart
Guests: Jay McInerney and John Burnham Schwartz
Duration: Approximately 31 minutes

1. Introduction to Truman Capote's Centennial

The episode opens with Alison Stewart celebrating the centennial anniversary of Truman Capote, a towering figure in 20th-century literature known for his groundbreaking works in both fiction and nonfiction. Capote, born in 1924, remains a complex icon—renowned for his literary genius and infamous for his tumultuous personal life.

2. Personal Connections and Early Impressions

John Burnham Schwartz shares his unique personal connection with Capote, revealing, “[02:32] ... my father was his lawyer and friend and eventually founded the Capote Trust in 1994. And so I grew up with Truman in our house all the time.” He describes Capote as “definitely the sadder Truman, often drunk” but also “incredibly charming” during moments of sobriety.

Alison Stewart recounts her own encounter with Capote towards the end of his life: “[03:44] ... he was drunk, and he seemed to take quite a shine to me because he dragged me into George's office and closed the door and proceeded to give me some cocaine while he tried to feel me up.” This meeting left Sterling with a complex image of Capote, juxtaposing his public brilliance with personal struggles.

3. Capote's Literary Mastery and New York Representation

The discussion delves into Capote's unparalleled ability to capture the essence of New York City in his writing. Alison praises his descriptive prowess: “[05:50] ... his descriptions were just perfect. His descriptions of people, but also of the landscape, of the apartment building, of the neighborhood.” This mastery is exemplified in works like Breakfast at Tiffany's and In Cold Blood, where Capote's vivid imagery immerses readers in the settings and characters.

John Burnham Schwartz adds depth by highlighting Capote's nuanced portrayal of characters and places, stating, “[06:43] ... layers of both a person and a place, all the different layers, the sort of shiny surface and the effort that would go into that.”

4. "Breakfast at Tiffany's" and Cultural Impact

The conversation shifts to Breakfast at Tiffany's, with Jay McInerney asking about its enduring relevance. Alison emphasizes the book's timeless quality: “[11:23] ... it's the archetypal New York story—provincial comes to New York to completely reinvent themselves.” The character Holly Golightly is lauded as “a wonderful character” who embodies the spirit of New York's diverse inhabitants.

John Burnham Schwartz discusses the story’s layers, noting, “[10:51] ... it's an incredibly complicated, wonderful, socially rich tapestry.” He also points out the flaws in the film adaptation, particularly the portrayal of Mr. Yunioshi, criticizing Mickey Rooney’s casting as “totally not okay” ([09:51]).

5. "In Cold Blood" and the Birth of Literary Nonfiction

Alison Stewart introduces In Cold Blood, highlighting its significance as a pioneering work in literary nonfiction. A clip from an archival recording ([08:02]) features Capote himself, bringing authenticity to the discussion.

John Burnham Schwartz elaborates on the book’s impact: “[18:24] ... it's a book that... treats the murderers as subjects and treats them as human beings in the sense of their... lives were like.” He underscores the ethical and stylistic innovations Capote introduced, which have influenced generations of writers.

6. The Twilight of Capote’s Legacy: "Answered Prayers"

The episode addresses the controversial fallout from Capote's Answered Prayers, a collection that seemingly betrayed his close friends, known as "The Swans." Jay McInerney questions whether Capote crossed ethical lines in his quest for content, to which John Burnham Schwartz responds, “[27:32] I do think he crossed the line...” attributing this to Capote’s deteriorating personal state and his blurred lines between fiction and reality.

Alison Stewart reflects on the personal toll, stating, “[28:53] ... these stories were pretty much gossip typed out and published by Esquire,” highlighting the damaged relationships and the complexity of Capote's intentions versus his actions.

7. The Capote Trust and Supporting Future Writers

John Burnham Schwartz discusses the establishment and impact of the Capote Trust, founded by his father and stepmother, Louise and Alan Schwartz: “[14:24] ... the Capote Trust has given us... Truman Capote Fellowships.” This trust plays a crucial role in supporting emerging writers through scholarships and prizes, honoring Capote’s legacy by fostering new literary talents.

He adds, “[15:45] ... there are many different kinds of institutions and writers. And so that's very cool,” emphasizing the trust's broad and inclusive support system.

8. Listener Engagement: Favorite Capote Works

Listener calls enrich the discussion with personal reflections on Capote's works. Judy from Howell, New Jersey shares her love for A Christmas Memory: “[23:58] ... it's a warm, beautiful story. And I read it every Christmas.” Alison echoes this sentiment, stating, “[24:50] ... it's a very beautiful story.”

John Burnham Schwartz recommends Miriam, a prize-winning short story, and advises listeners to explore the Collected Stories for a comprehensive understanding of Capote's craft.

9. Conclusion: The Duality of Capote's Legacy

The episode concludes with reflections on Capote's enduring yet complicated legacy. John Burnham Schwartz summarizes, “[29:55] ... he will forever be known as both these things and it... muddies his literary legacy.” This duality underscores the lasting impact of Capote’s literary achievements alongside the controversies that shadow his personal life.

Alison Stewart encapsulates the essence of Capote’s enduring relevance: “[30:35] ... if there was more, he would have made sure that it was preserved and eventually published.” This highlights the ongoing fascination and debate surrounding Capote’s contributions to literature and culture.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• John Burnham Schwartz on his personal experience with Capote: “[02:32] ... my father was his lawyer and friend... it was definitely the sadder Truman, often drunk.”

• Alison Stewart recounting her encounter: “[03:40] ... he was drunk... gave me some cocaine while he tried to feel me up.”

• Alison Stewart on Capote's descriptive prowess: “[05:50] ... his descriptions were just perfect. His descriptions of people, but also of the landscape...”

• John Burnham Schwartz on In Cold Blood: “[18:24] ... treats the murderers as subjects and treats them as human beings...”

• John Burnham Schwartz on Answered Prayers: “[27:32] I do think he crossed the line...”

• John Burnham Schwartz on the Capote Trust: “[14:24] ... the Capote Trust has given us... Truman Capote Fellowships.”

Final Thoughts

This episode of All Of It provides a comprehensive exploration of Truman Capote's multifaceted legacy. Through personal anecdotes, literary analysis, and insightful discussions, Alison Stewart, Jay McInerney, and John Burnham Schwartz paint a vivid portrait of a writer whose brilliance is interwoven with personal struggles and controversies. The conversation not only celebrates Capote’s literary milestones but also critically examines the complexities that define his enduring influence on American culture and literature.