In a basic sense, 'A Little Life' is a homage to how my friends and I live our lives. I wanted to push past the definitions of how we typically define friendship. It's a different version of adulthood, but it's no less important and no less legitimate than anyone else's.

Hanya Yanagihara’s quote reflects the underlying themes of her novel A Little Life, particularly focusing on the nature of friendship and adulthood. Yanagihara acknowledges that the relationships explored in the book are not the typical or conventional ones, but rather a unique version of friendship that challenges traditional definitions. She aims to portray a deeper, more complex form of connection that goes beyond the usual expectations of how we define friendship in society.

The quote also speaks to the legitimacy and importance of different life experiences, particularly those that deviate from mainstream ideals. Yanagihara highlights that this version of adulthood—one shaped by unconventional friendships, emotional bonds, and shared experiences—is just as valid as any other. By pushing past the typical boundaries of how friendship is usually understood, she elevates the narrative of friendship as something that can take many forms and still hold immense value and meaning.

Yanagihara’s work, especially in A Little Life, explores the complexities of emotional bonds and trauma, emphasizing that the depth of friendship can surpass surface-level social expectations. Her characters form connections that are often misunderstood by society but are powerful in their own right. This quote reflects her intention to showcase a different yet equally important and legitimate version of adulthood where friendships and relationships provide profound emotional fulfillment.

The origin of this quote stems from Yanagihara’s own experiences and observations of human connections. As the author of a deeply emotional and thought-provoking book, she sought to create a narrative that challenges conventional portrayals of friendship and adulthood, offering a space for stories that reflect the complexities of personal relationships. Through this quote, Yanagihara invites readers to reconsider what truly constitutes meaningful connection and adult life.