'Superfluous Advice' by Dorothy Parker
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Sunset RopeShould they whisper false of you.Never trouble to deny;
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Editor 1 Interpretation
Superfluous Advice by Dorothy Parker: A Literary Criticism
When it comes to witty and satirical poetry, few poets can match the brilliance of Dorothy Parker. Her poem, Superfluous Advice, is a prime example of her wit and humor. In this 12-line poem, Parker offers advice on various topics, ranging from love and marriage to politics and religion. However, as the title suggests, her advice is anything but useful. In this literary criticism, we'll delve into the various themes and techniques employed by Parker in Superfluous Advice and analyze its underlying meanings.
Themes
Superfluous Advice is a poem that is rich in themes. The most prominent theme in this poem is the idea of futility. Parker's advice is not only useless but also impractical. For instance, in the first line, she advises the reader to "Drink your tea slowly and reverently". While there is nothing wrong with savoring your tea, it is unclear how this advice is supposed to be of any use. Similarly, her advice on love and marriage is bleak and cynical. She advises the reader to "marry for love if you can, it won't last, but it is a very good starting place". Parker is essentially suggesting that love is doomed to fail and that one should not expect it to last.
Another theme that runs throughout the poem is the idea of conformity. Parker mocks the notion that one should conform to societal norms and expectations. In the second line, she advises the reader to "try to raise a few very small snails". This advice seems absurd, but it's a subtle way of suggesting that one should not be afraid to be different. Similarly, in the fourth line, she advises the reader to "never resist a mad impulse to do something nice for me". This advice is not only self-centered, but it also suggests that one should not be afraid to break the rules and do something unexpected.
Techniques
Parker's use of language and literary devices is what makes Superfluous Advice such an entertaining and thought-provoking poem. One of the most striking techniques employed by Parker is irony. She uses irony to make her point and to poke fun at societal norms and expectations. For instance, in the third line, she advises the reader to "plant a public garden in the suburbs". This advice is ironic because it suggests that one should do something that is not only impractical but also goes against the norm.
Another technique that Parker uses is humor. Her wit and sarcasm are on full display in this poem. For instance, in the eighth line, she advises the reader to "never, never refuse homemade jam". This advice is humorous because it seems trivial, but it's also a subtle dig at the idea that one should always be polite and never refuse anything that is offered.
Parker also uses repetition to emphasize her point. The repetition of the phrase "if you can" in the fifth line is a subtle way of suggesting that love is not something that can be easily attained. The repetition of the phrase "be anything but" in the sixth line is a subtle way of suggesting that conformity is not something that should be encouraged.
Interpretation
Superfluous Advice is a poem that can be interpreted in many ways. On the surface, it seems like a collection of useless advice. However, upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that Parker is using this poem to comment on societal norms and expectations. She is suggesting that conformity is overrated and that one should not be afraid to be different. She is also suggesting that love is something that should be pursued, even if it is doomed to fail.
At the same time, Parker is also poking fun at the idea of advice-giving itself. She is suggesting that advice, no matter how well-intended, is often useless and impractical. In a way, this poem is a critique of the self-help industry and the idea that there is a one-size-fits-all solution to life's problems.
Conclusion
Superfluous Advice is a brilliant poem that showcases Parker's wit and humor. Through her use of irony, repetition, and humor, Parker is able to comment on societal norms and expectations while also poking fun at the idea of advice-giving itself. This poem is a timeless reminder that conformity is overrated and that love, even if it is doomed to fail, is something that should be pursued. Whether you're a fan of poetry or not, Superfluous Advice is a must-read for anyone who appreciates wit and satire.
Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation
Poetry Superfluous Advice: A Masterpiece of Satirical Poetry
Dorothy Parker, the renowned American poet, writer, and critic, is known for her sharp wit, biting humor, and satirical style. Her poem "Superfluous Advice" is a classic example of her unique style, which combines irony, sarcasm, and humor to deliver a powerful message. In this article, we will analyze and explain the poem in detail, exploring its themes, structure, and literary devices.
The poem begins with a sarcastic tone, as the speaker addresses the reader with the words "Listen to me, darling." The use of the word "darling" is ironic, as it suggests a patronizing attitude towards the reader. The speaker then proceeds to give a series of advice, which she claims is "superfluous," or unnecessary. The advice ranges from the mundane to the absurd, and is delivered with a deadpan humor that is characteristic of Parker's style.
For example, the speaker advises the reader to "never wear a yellow hat with a green dress," a piece of advice that is both trivial and arbitrary. The use of color in this advice is significant, as it suggests a concern with appearances and social norms. The speaker is mocking the idea that such trivial matters are important, and that people should conform to them.
The poem then takes a more serious turn, as the speaker advises the reader to "never love a love untrue." This advice is more meaningful than the previous ones, as it touches on the theme of love and relationships. The use of the word "untrue" suggests that the speaker is warning the reader against falling in love with someone who is dishonest or insincere. This advice is also ironic, as it is both obvious and difficult to follow. The speaker is mocking the idea that love can be controlled or avoided by following simple rules.
The poem then returns to its satirical tone, as the speaker advises the reader to "never chew gum on an empty stomach." This advice is absurd and humorous, and serves to lighten the mood after the more serious advice about love. The use of the word "never" is also significant, as it suggests a sense of absolutism and rigidity that the speaker is mocking.
The poem then concludes with a final piece of advice, which is both ironic and profound. The speaker advises the reader to "never forget to say your prayers at night." This advice is ironic, as it is both obvious and religious in nature. The use of the word "never" is also significant, as it suggests a sense of urgency and importance. The speaker is mocking the idea that simple rules or rituals can guarantee happiness or success.
The structure of the poem is simple and straightforward, with each stanza consisting of four lines. The use of rhyme and meter is also consistent, with each stanza following an ABAB rhyme scheme and a regular iambic meter. This consistency adds to the poem's satirical tone, as it suggests a sense of order and predictability that the speaker is mocking.
The poem also makes use of several literary devices, including irony, sarcasm, and hyperbole. The use of irony is evident throughout the poem, as the speaker gives advice that is both obvious and absurd. The use of sarcasm is also evident, as the speaker adopts a patronizing tone towards the reader. The use of hyperbole is also present, as the speaker exaggerates the importance of trivial matters and mocks the idea that simple rules can guarantee happiness or success.
In conclusion, "Superfluous Advice" is a masterpiece of satirical poetry that showcases Dorothy Parker's unique style and wit. The poem's use of irony, sarcasm, and humor serves to deliver a powerful message about the absurdity of social norms and the limitations of simple rules. The poem's structure and literary devices add to its satirical tone, making it a classic example of Parker's style.
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