Dorothy Parker was an American poet, writer, and critic known for her wit and sharp humor. Her poems often explore themes of love, relationships, and the human condition. With her unique writing style, Parker captivated readers with her ability to convey complex emotions in a few carefully chosen words.
Throughout her career, Parker published numerous collections of poetry, including “Enough Rope” and “Death and Taxes.” Her work has been praised for its clever wordplay, satirical edge, and poignant observations on life. Parker’s poems continue to resonate with readers today, making her one of the most influential poets of the 20th century.
In this article, we will explore some of the unique and beautiful poems by Dorothy Parker that showcase her talent and literary prowess.
Unique and Beautiful Poems by Dorothy Parker
“Résumé”
Razors pain you;
Rivers are damp;
Acids stain you;
And drugs cause cramp.
Guns aren’t lawful;
Nooses give;
Gas smells awful;
You might as well live.
“One Perfect Rose”
A single flow’r he sent me, since we met.
All tenderly his messenger he chose;
Deep-hearted, pure, with scented dew still wet—
One perfect rose.
“The Flaw in Paganism”
Drink and dance and laugh and lie,
Love, the reeling midnight through,
For tomorrow we shall die!
(But, alas, we never do.)
“Unfortunate Coincidence”
By the time you swear you’re his,
Shivering and sighing,
And he vows his passion is
Infinite, undying—
Lady, make a note of this:
One of you is lying.
“Symptom Recital”
I do not like my state of mind;
I’m bitter, querulous, unkind.
I hate my legs, I hate my hands,
I do not yearn for lovelier lands.
“A Very Short Song”
Once, when I was young and true,
Someone left me sad—
Broke my brittle heart in two;
And that is very bad.
“Love Song”
My own dear love, he is strong and bold
And he cares not what comes after.
His words ring sweet as a chime of gold,
And his eyes are lit with laughter.
“Resumé”
Some men break your heart in two,
Some men fawn and flatter,
Some men never look at you;
And that clears up the matter.
“A Fairly Sad Tale”
There once was a person of brass
Who lived high atop a great glass.
When asked, “Does it hurt?”
He replied, “Not a bit,
Though I greatly fear heights when I pass.”
“Inscription for the Ceiling of a Bedroom”
Daily dawns another day;
I must up, to make my way.
Though I dress and drink and eat,
Move my fingers and my feet,
Learn a little, here and there,
Weep and laugh and sweat and swear,
Hear a song, or watch a stage,
Leave some words upon a page,
Claim a foe, or hail a friend—
Bed awaits me at the end.
These are just a few examples of the captivating and thought-provoking poems by Dorothy Parker. Her unique perspective and clever wordplay continue to make her work relevant and cherished by poetry enthusiasts worldwide. Exploring Parker’s poems allows readers to delve into the complexities of human emotions and experiences, all while being entertained by her wit and charm.
