"What's In a Name?": Audrey Hepburn and other Nameless Cats

By Jesy Odio on April 5, 2012

Although I’m sure Truman Capote or the director, Blake Edwards did not have any intention towards this, by the end of Breakfast at Tiffany’s, I couldn’t help but think of the “nameless cat” on the film and the potential of names and titles. While the cat was supposed to be a symbol of independence and freedom by not abiding to a name, subtlety, it can also be a reflection of what came about to Audrey Hepburn’s character in the film. While it is a common fact that Breakfast at Tiffany’s is Audrey Hepburn’s stellar film, not many can easily remember the name of her character on the film. While Hepburn’s name became unforgettable, her trademark character might as well be just another nameless cat. This ultimately led to me thinking about names and even my future career. How exactly do you want to make a name for yourself without becoming just a cat without a name?

There are, in fact, many ways in making a name for yourself. It just depends how you want to be seen, after all. Would you rather follow Audrey Hepburn’s archetype, where she becomes a noteworthy actress, but her Holly Golightly independent and free-spirited character becomes disregarded? Bet you couldn’t even recall the name of the character! (Except of course, for those die-hard fanatics). Or, perhaps even like Anakin Skywalker’s character. While most of the Star Wars personas are constantly remembered and have lasted through several decades, Hayden Christensen’s career did not follow the stardom of his character. And of course, there is the confining option that you created a character so phenomenal and vivid, that audiences even struggle to picture you acting in anything else but the original character (for example, Matthew Broderick’s Ferris Bueller).

Nevertheless, those are not the only options when it comes to making a name for yourself. There are the few lucky, successful ones. Take Steve Jobs, for example. The genius behind Apple, IPod, and iTunes managed to create a name for himself and for his company, as well. Or the fabulous French designer, Coco Chanel. Anyone who hears that name will immediately recall her inspiring designs and her elegant, poised lady she used to be.

So when it comes to your career, what do you want your name to resonate as? Whether as an engineer, or a dancer, we all desire our names and ideas to grow an echo, and not just a hollow sound.

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