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Capote spent the next few years researching what would become his next literary project. His book would give a detailed description of the murders. It would explore the effects of the killing on the town. And it would even tell the story from the point of view of the killers.

FAITH LAPIDUS: But Capote became involved in a moral conflict. He could not complete his book until he knew its ending. So, he had to wait until the end of the trial to see if both killers were found guilty and put to death. As a writer he wanted to finish the story.

But as a friend, it was difficult for him to watch the two men die. Capote was torn between his duty towards human life and his duty to his work.

BOB DOUGHTY: Capote worked for six years to produce his book "In Cold Blood." It was finally published in nineteen sixty-six.

It immediately became an international best seller. Truman Capote had invented a whole new kind of writing. He called it the non-fiction novel. He was at the top of his profession.

Here is a recording of Truman Capote from a two thousand five documentary about him. Listen to Capote's small southern voice as he talks about style.

TRUMAN CAPOTE: "I think one has style or one doesn't, but style is one's self. It's something that you don't, you cannot...learn.

It's something that has to come from within you. And bit by bit, be arrived at and it's simply there like the color of your eyes."

FAITH LAPIDUS: Truman Capote decided to celebrate his new success. In nineteen sixty-six he gave what people called the "party of the century." He invited five hundred friends for a night of eating, drinking and dancing at the Plaza Hotel in New York. Guests included famous writers, actors and important people from the media. They were told to wear either black or white formal clothing.

Capote's "Black and White Ball" was one of the most famous events in the history of New York society.

BOB DOUGHTY: But Truman Capote's popularity soon decreased. His drinking and drug use seriously affected his health. His writing also suffered. He published stories that insulted his rich and powerful friends. Many people no longer wanted to have anything to do with him. Capote died in ninety eighty-four. He was fifty-nine.

FAITH LAPIDUS: Truman Capote's writing is still celebrated today for its clarity and style. In two thousand five the film "Capote" renewed interest in his work and personality. This little man from Alabama left an important mark on American literary culture.

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BOB DOUGHTY: This program was written and produced by Dana Demange. I'm Bob Doughty.

FAITH LAPIDUS: And I'm Faith Lapidus. Join us again next week for PEOPLE IN AMERICA in VOA Special English.