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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

  • social gatherings
  • arguments
  • parties

Putting it to work

  • socializing
  • handling insults

Questions to consider

  • Is wit worth the hurt?
  • When to reply with an insult?

Another view

It may damage relationships.

More from Dorothy Parker

  1. Gee Moss, imagine what God could do if he had your money

    Permalink to quote #42
  2. 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
  3. 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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