"Brokeback Mountain" began its life as a short story penned by American author Annie Proulx. First appearing in *The New Yorker* on October 13, 1997, the narrative quickly garnered critical acclaim, earning
the National Magazine Award for Fiction in 1998. Proulx's work was further recognized with a third-place O. Henry Award in the same year, solidifying its place in contemporary American literature. This initial success laid the groundwork for its eventual transformation into a widely celebrated film.
A slightly expanded version of the story was later included in Proulx's 1999 collection, *Close Range: Wyoming Stories*. This collection itself was a finalist for the prestigious 2000 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, underscoring the literary merit and impact of Proulx's writing, particularly her ability to capture the essence of the American West. The story's compelling narrative and realistic portrayal of its characters made it a prime candidate for adaptation.
Narrative Style and Character Development
Proulx's "Brokeback Mountain" is characterized by its omniscient narrator, a storytelling choice that allows for a deep exploration of the characters' inner lives. The narrative maintains a realistic tone, employing vivid description, evocative metaphor, and authentic dialogue to delve into the actions, thoughts, emotions, and motivations of its main characters, Ennis del Mar and Jack Twist. This approach provides readers with a nuanced understanding of their complex relationship.
The story's structure is largely linear, tracing events sequentially from its beginning in 1963 to its conclusion some twenty years later. An introductory prologue, which was inadvertently omitted from its initial *New Yorker* publication, sets the stage by showing Ennis del Mar reflecting on a dream about Jack Twist, hinting at the enduring impact of their connection. This framing device immediately establishes the emotional weight of the story.
Setting and Realism in the Narrative
The settings within "Brokeback Mountain" are primarily actual locations in the United States, with the exception of the titular mountain and the nearby town of Signal. This grounding in reality contributes to the story's naturalistic depiction of its characters, who are presented as individuals living within a specific milieu. They are described as high school dropouts from poor ranches in Wyoming, accustomed to hard work and a stoic life, which shapes their interactions and perspectives.
The story adheres to the conventions of modern dramatic fiction, utilizing literary devices to present a recognizable portrait of people in familiar situations. Unlike some other stories in *Wyoming Stories* that incorporate elements of magical realism, "Brokeback Mountain" avoids supernatural or metaphysical allusions, focusing instead on the raw, human experience. The narrative is episodic, condensing years and significant events into brief passages and using dialogue effectively to reveal character and conflict, making it a powerful and poignant piece of literature.
