The Unfinished Work of Truman Capote
Truman Capote passed away in 1984 in Bel Air, having not completed his long-anticipated book, Answered Prayers. This unfinished masterpiece was touted by the author as the work that would revolutionize American literature, comparing it to Proust’s impact on France. However, despite years of work, a substantial advance, and multiple extensions, Answered Prayers remained incomplete at the time of Capote’s death. This left those who had supported him throughout the process questioning whether they had been manipulated by the author.
The Search for Answered Prayers
Capote’s journals shed light on the structure of Answered Prayers, revealing plans for seven chapters. However, only four chapters were ever drafted. Three of these chapters were published in Esquire and Vanity Fair, exposing the thinly veiled portrayals of his high-society acquaintances. The fallout from these revelations led to the estrangement of many of Capote’s former friends, who felt betrayed by his depiction of them in the novel.
The Characters of Answered Prayers
The chapters that were unearthed provide a glimpse into the scandalous world Capote intended to depict in Answered Prayers. “La Côte Basque, 1965” delves into the lives of his socialite friends, while “Kate McCloud” draws inspiration from real-life figures like Mona von Bismarck. Another chapter, “Unspoiled Monsters,” explores the exploits of a manipulative hustler navigating the literary scene. Lastly, “Yachts and Things” offers a glimpse into a hedonistic adventure abroad, featuring characters reminiscent of prominent figures in Capote’s circle.
Capote’s Legacy
Despite the unfinished nature of Answered Prayers, Capote’s impact on literature and society remains undeniable. His bold and controversial storytelling style captured the attention of readers and critics alike. While the full extent of Capote’s vision for Answered Prayers may never be realized, the fragments that have surfaced continue to fascinate and intrigue audiences to this day.