When she and Clare Boothe Luce were entering a room, Clare hung back, saying, 'Age before beauty'; Dorothy entered saying 'Pearls before swine.'
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- A witty repartee contrasts age and beauty with insult.
- In plain terms
- She mocks polite aging rules with an insult.
- What can you take from it?
- Wit can subvert social politeness.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Is wit worth the hurt?
- When to reply with an insult?
Another view
It may damage relationships.
More from Dorothy Parker
Gee Moss, imagine what God could do if he had your money
Permalink to quote #42 If you want to know what the Lord God thinks of money, just look at those to whom he gives it.
Permalink to quote #44 Tallulah Bankhead: 'Why, it's as easy as ducking for apples.' Dorothy Parker: 'Hah, change one letter in that sentence and you've got the story of my life.'
Permalink to quote #41
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