Dorothy Parker’s Resume: A Portrait Of Wit, Talent, And Witicism
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As one of the most renowned writers, poets, and satirists of the 20th century, Dorothy Parker’s resume is an intriguing glimpse into the career of a literary icon. Known for her sharp wit, lyrical style, and social commentary, Parker’s work has left a lasting impact on the literary world. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of Parker’s resume and how it reflects her unique style and voice.
1. Early Life and Education
Parker’s early life and education played a significant role in shaping her career. Born in New Jersey in 1893, Parker grew up in a family that valued education and culture. Her father was a successful businessman, and her mother was a writer and socialite. Parker attended various schools throughout her childhood, eventually graduating from Miss Dana’s School in Morristown, New Jersey.
2. Writing Career
Parker’s writing career began in earnest in the 1910s, when she started writing for magazines like Vanity Fair and The New Yorker. Her unique style, which combined humor, wit, and social commentary, quickly gained popularity among readers. She published her first poetry collection, Enough Rope, in 1926, and went on to publish several other collections throughout her career.
3. Literary Contributions
Parker’s literary contributions were vast and varied. She wrote poetry, short stories, essays, and reviews, all of which showcased her unique voice and style. Her work often explored themes of love, relationships, and the social conventions of the time. Some of her most famous works include Big Blonde, A Telephone Call, and Resume.
4. Hollywood Career
Parker’s Hollywood career began in the 1930s, when she moved to Los Angeles and began writing screenplays for various studios. She worked on films like A Star is Born and Saboteur, and even won an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay in 1938 for her work on A Star is Born.
5. Political Activism
Parker was also known for her political activism, particularly during the 1930s and 1940s. She was a member of the Communist Party of the United States for a time, and her writing often reflected her political views. She was also an advocate for civil rights and was one of the founding members of the NAACP Hollywood Branch.
6. Personal Life
Parker’s personal life was often tumultuous, with several failed marriages and struggles with alcoholism. She was known for her sharp tongue and biting wit, but also for her loyalty and generosity to her friends.
7. Legacy
Parker’s legacy as a writer and cultural icon is undeniable. Her work continues to be read and studied by scholars and readers alike, and her influence can be seen in the work of countless writers today. She was a pioneer for women in the literary world and remains a symbol of wit, intelligence, and creativity.
8. Early Writing Career
Parker began her writing career as a freelance journalist in the early 1910s, contributing to publications such as Vogue and Vanity Fair. Her early work focused on fashion and beauty, but she quickly began to incorporate her unique voice and style into her writing.
9. Poetry
Parker’s poetry is perhaps her most well-known and celebrated work. Her style, which combined humor, wit, and social commentary, was unique for its time and continues to be admired today. Some of her most famous poems include One Perfect Rose, Resumé, and Men.
10. Humor and Satire
Parker was known for her sharp wit and biting humor, which often took the form of satire. Her work often poked fun at the social conventions and expectations of the time, particularly those related to gender roles and relationships.
11. Writing Style
Parker’s writing style was characterized by its lyricism, wit, and honesty. She had a unique ability to capture the nuances of human emotion and relationships, often with just a few well-chosen words. Her work was widely admired for its intelligence, creativity, and humor.
FAQs:
1. What was Parker’s most famous poem?
Parker’s most famous poem is arguably Resumé, which humorously lists the various ways in which the speaker has attempted and failed to commit suicide.
2. What was Parker’s political affiliation?
Parker was a member of the Communist Party of the United States for a time, but later became disillusioned with the party and left.
3. Did Parker ever win an Academy Award?
Yes, Parker won an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay in 1938 for her work on A Star is Born.
4. Was Parker married?
Yes, Parker was married several times throughout her life, but none of her marriages were successful.
5. What was Parker’s legacy?
Parker’s legacy as a writer and cultural icon is vast and varied, but she is perhaps best known for her contributions to poetry and her role as a pioneer for women in the literary world.
In conclusion, Dorothy Parker’s resume is a reflection of her unique voice and style as a writer, as well as her contributions to politics, culture, and society as a whole. Her legacy continues to be felt today, making her one of the most enduring literary figures of the 20th century.
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