Quote by Dorothy Parker, Inventory

Four be the things I am wiser to know: Idleness, sorrow, a friend, and a foe. Four be the things I'd been better without: Love, curiosity, freckles, and doubt. Three be the things I shall never attain: Envy, content, and sufficient champagne. Three be the things I shall have till I die: Laughter and hope and a sock in the eye.

Four be the things I am wiser to know: Idleness, sorrow, a f

Summary

The quote conveys the speaker's wisdom derived from their life experiences. They acknowledge that idleness and sorrow are unproductive, while having both a friend and a foe helps one navigate the complexities of life. The speaker considers love, curiosity, freckles, and doubt as aspects they could have gone without, implying that these have caused them trouble or pain. They also express resignation to never achieve envy, contentment, or enough champagne. Conversely, they identify laughter, hope, and even getting a sock in the eye as the enduring aspects that will accompany them until death, suggesting a dark sense of humor and a resilient spirit.

Topics

Reflection

By Dorothy Parker, Inventory

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