The Mean Reds Breakfast At Tiffany's Quote
Introduction
Breakfast at Tiffany's is a classic romantic comedy film released in 1961, starring Audrey Hepburn as Holly Golightly, a charming and eccentric socialite living in New York City. The film is based on Truman Capote's novella of the same name and is known for its iconic fashion and memorable quotes, including the famous "The mean reds" quote.
The Mean Reds Quote
In the film, Holly Golightly describes a feeling she calls "the mean reds" to her neighbor and love interest, Paul Varjak (played by George Peppard). She says, "The blues are because you're getting fat and maybe it's been raining too long, you're just sad that's all. The mean reds are horrible. Suddenly you're afraid and you don't know what you're afraid of."
This quote has become a cultural reference and is often used to describe a feeling of anxiety or fear that cannot be explained.
The Origins of the Quote
The phrase "the mean reds" was coined by Truman Capote, the author of the novella on which the film is based. In the novella, Holly Golightly describes the same feeling to the narrator, saying, "The mean reds are awful. Suddenly you're afraid and you don't know what you're afraid of. Do you ever get that feeling?"
Capote explained in an interview that he came up with the phrase to describe a feeling that was more intense than just feeling blue. He said, "Well, when I get it, the only thing that does any good is to jump in a cab and go to Tiffany's. Calms me down right away. The quietness and the proud look of it; nothing very bad could happen to you there. If I could find a real-life place that'd make me feel like Tiffany's, then - then I'd buy some furniture and give the cat a name!"
The Significance of Tiffany's
Tiffany's is a famous jewelry store located on Fifth Avenue in New York City. In the film, Holly Golightly often goes to Tiffany's to escape her problems and find solace in its glamorous and serene atmosphere. The store represents a place of safety and comfort for her, where she can forget her worries and feel at ease.
The significance of Tiffany's in the film has made it a symbol of luxury and sophistication, and the phrase "Breakfast at Tiffany's" has become synonymous with chic and glamour.
The Legacy of the Quote
The "mean reds" quote has become one of the most iconic lines in film history and has been referenced in popular culture in various forms. It has inspired fashion collections, songs, and even a cocktail.
Audrey Hepburn's portrayal of Holly Golightly has also become an iconic symbol of fashion and beauty, and her style in the film, including the little black dress she wears in the opening scene, has become legendary.
Conclusion
The "mean reds" quote from Breakfast at Tiffany's has become a cultural reference and a symbol of the film's enduring legacy. It represents a feeling of anxiety and fear that is hard to explain, and the significance of Tiffany's in the film has made it a symbol of luxury and sophistication. Audrey Hepburn's portrayal of Holly Golightly has become an icon of fashion and beauty, and her style in the film has inspired generations of women.