Google trend - Feud: Capote vs The Swans

Feud: Capote vs The Swans is a captivating non-fiction book written by Peter Manso, published in It delves into the complex relationship between Truman Capote, a renowned American writer, and the high society women he referred to as "The Swans." This feud, which began as a close friendship, ultimately ended in betrayal and scandal.

The Swans were a group of wealthy and influential women in New York City during the 1950s and 1960s. They included such prominent figures as Babe Paley, Slim Keith, C.Z. Guest, Gloria Guinness, and Marella Agnelli. Capote, a talented writer and socialite himself, was welcomed into their inner circle and became a confidant to these elegant and powerful women.

Capote's relationship with The Swans was based on mutual admiration and shared secrets. He was fascinated by their glamorous lifestyles and used their stories as inspiration for his writing. In return, The Swans found solace in Capote's company and his ability to capture their essence in his works.

However, the dynamics of this friendship began to change when Capote decided to write a tell-all book about The Swans. This book, which was initially intended to be a celebration of their lives, turned into a scandalous exposé. In it, Capote revealed intimate details about their marriages, affairs, and personal struggles.

The publication of this book, titled "Answered Prayers," caused a tremendous uproar within the high society circles. The Swans felt betrayed, as Capote had violated their trust and exposed their vulnerabilities to the public. The fallout from this betrayal was immense, with some of The Swans cutting off all ties with Capote and others publicly denouncing him.

The feud between Capote and The Swans was further fueled by Capote's declining mental health and addiction issues. As he spiraled into a world of drugs and alcohol, he became increasingly isolated from his former friends. The Swans, on the other hand, moved on with their lives, trying to distance themselves from the scandal and protect their reputations.

The book also explores the impact of this feud on Capote's career. "Answered Prayers" was never completed, and Capote struggled to find success in his later years. He became a pariah in literary circles, and his once-promising career was overshadowed by the scandal surrounding The Swans.

Feud: Capote vs The Swans provides a fascinating insight into the world of high society and the complexities of friendship and betrayal. Manso's meticulous research and interviews with those involved in the feud offer a comprehensive and nuanced perspective on the events that unfolded.

In conclusion, Feud: Capote vs The Swans is a captivating exploration of Truman Capote's tumultuous relationship with the high society women known as The Swans. It sheds light on the dynamics of friendship, betrayal, and the consequences of exposing secrets. Manso's book is a must-read for anyone interested in the lives of the rich and famous and the price they pay for their fame.