**Discovering “A Little Life book”: 10 Interesting Facts You Didn’t Know**
A Little Life” by Hanya Yanagihara has become a global phenomenon that touches on themes of brotherhood, scars, and perseverance. Below are ten interesting things that one might not have known about the novel that will enrich one’s appreciation of this emotionally charged literary piece.
1. **Unexpected Success**: Although initially released with modest expectations, “A Little Life” quickly became a critically acclaimed bestseller. It was shortlisted for the 2015 Booker Prize and the National Book Award, cementing its status as a literary triumph
2. **The Cover’s Mystique**: The novel’s evocative cover, featuring a black-and-white photograph of a man in apparent agony, is a piece by Peter Hujar, titled “Orgasmic Man.” The image is often mistaken for expressing pain rather than pleasure, a fitting metaphor for the book’s complex exploration of human emotions
3. **New York, New York**: Yanagihara’s depiction of New York City captures the city’s ambiance and vitality in vivid detail. Her intimate knowledge of the city, having lived there for over 20 years, allows her to paint an authentic and immersive picture of its many layers
4. **Character Inspirations**: While the highly detailed and fully realized characters may seem drawn from real life, Yanagihara asserts they are entirely fictional. Their struggles and personalities, however, are intricately developed to reflect a broad spectrum of human experiences
5. **Stark Realities**: “A Little Life” does not shy away from difficult themes, including abuse, self-harm, and trauma. These intense subjects are handled with unflinching honesty, sparking conversations about mental health and the resilience of the human spirit
6. **Evolution of Jude St. Francis**: The character of Jude, who is at the heart of the novel, evolved over time. Originally conceived as a secondary character, his tragic past and complex personality gradually became the focal point of the narrative.
7. **Length and Structure**: At over 700 pages, “A Little Life” is notable for its length. Yanagihara wanted to give the novel a sprawling, almost Victorian feel, allowing readers to become deeply invested in the characters’ lives over many years
8. **Critical Divide**: The novel has polarized critics and readers alike. Some praise its depth and emotional intensity, while others criticize it for its relentless depiction of suffering, questioning whether it verges on exploitation
9. **Enduring Friendships**: Despite its many dark moments, “A Little Life” is, at its core, a celebration of the enduring power of friendship. The bonds between the four main characters—Jude, Willem, JB, and Malcolm—are depicted with remarkable tenderness and complexity
10. **Yanagihara’s Influences**: Yanagihara draws inspiration from various literary and artistic sources. Her writing is influenced by authors like Charles Dickens and Donna Tartt, as well as visual artists who explore human vulnerability