Capote incorporates extensive writings from Smith's sister, father, court-appointed psychiatrist, and friend Willie Jay, which detail Smith's upbringing, motorcycle accident, biases, and mental condition. These accounts collectively paint a picture of Smith as an inherently intelligent, talented, and sensitive individual, who has been distorted and damaged by neglect, abuse, humiliation, and unresolved emotional trauma. Smith's mother was an alcoholic who choked on her own vomit. His brother and sister took their own lives, while another sister disowned him. His father moved him frequently during his childhood, hindering his education. Despite this, Smith taught himself to play the guitar and harmonica, to paint, and to use precise grammar. He is an avid reader and, ‘‘being a bit of a prude,’’ avoids vulgar literature and materials. In prison, he painted a portrait of Jesus for the prison chaplain, prompting Reverend Post to believe Smith might not be "all that bad.’’ Capote's exploration of Smith's early life and family background raises the question of whether Smith's criminal actions are a result of inherent tendencies or if they are a consequence of circumstances beyond his control.