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.

In a straightforward sense, Hanya Yanagihara's statement reflects her intention to capture the essence of friendship as experienced by herself and her peers. She aims to portray how friends support each other through life’s challenges while challenging conventional ideas about what constitutes true friendship. By doing so, she seeks to provide a nuanced perspective on adult life that is distinct yet equally valid compared to more traditional narratives.

The deeper significance of Yanagihara's words lies in her desire to redefine the concept of adulthood and friendship beyond conventional boundaries. She argues that while society often has set expectations for how adults should live their lives, these norms do not encompass all realities. By pushing past rigid definitions, she invites readers to appreciate diverse experiences of growing up and maintaining strong bonds with friends, acknowledging them as equally meaningful and authentic regardless of whether they fit the mainstream mold.

Hanya Yanagihara is an accomplished American author known for her powerful storytelling that delves into themes of friendship, adversity, and human resilience. Her novel "A Little Life," from which this quote is drawn, received critical acclaim for its raw portrayal of friendships over decades and the struggles faced by individuals who navigate life's challenges together.