There's life for you. Spend the best years of your life studying penmanship and rhetoric and syntax and Beowulf and George Eliot, and then somebody steals your pencil.
By the time you swear you're his, Shivering and sighing. And he vows his passion is, Infinite, undying. Lady make note of this -- One of you is lying.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote highlights the fleeting nature of romantic declarations, suggesting that one partner may not be as committed as they claim.
Dorothy Parker's quote reflects on the complexities and potential insincerities of romantic relationships. It captures the moment when one partner fervently declares their loyalty and love, only to hint that such declarations might not be entirely truthful. The line suggests a sense of skepticism about the authenticity of such passionate vows, inviting listeners to consider the possibility of deception in love.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
During a discussion about modern dating, this quote can serve as a cautionary reminder about sincerity in relationships.
More from Dorothy Parker
All quotes →My land is bare of chattering folk; / the clouds are low along the ridges, / and sweet's the air with curly smoke / from all my burning bridges.
Prince or commoner, tenor or bass, Painter or plumber or never-do-well, Do me a favor and shut your face - Poets alone should kiss and tell.
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.
It is that word 'hunny,' my darlings, that marks the first place in The House at Pooh Corner at which Tonstant Weader fwowed up.
I can’t write five words but that I change seven.
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Not a word passes between us, not because we have nothing to say, but because we don't have to say anything