To celebrate National Poetry Month this April, I'm sharing a poem each day. Today I'm sharing two, not only because it's nearly impossible to find something by Dorothy Parker that isn't fabulous, but also because these two poems reflect the same philosophy: I am me, I am confident, and to hell with the word "should." I love it. Parker is witty, a bit sarcastic, and speaks through her poetry with a keenly sharp tongue (she once said, The first thing I do in the morning is brush my teeth and sharpen my tongue).
First: "Neither Bloody Nor Bowed"
They say of me, and so they should,
It's doubtful if I come to good.
I see acquaintances and friends
Accumulating dividends,
And making enviable names
In science, art, and parlor games.
But I, despite expert advice,
Keep doing things I think are nice,
And though to good I never come-
Inseparable my nose and thumb!
The ladies men admire, I've heard,
Would shudder at a wicked word.
Their candle gives a single light;
They'd rather stay at home at night.
They do not keep awake till three,
Nor read erotic poetry.
They never sanction the impure,
Nor recognize an overture.
They shrink from powders and from paints ...
So far, I've had no complaints.