Dorothy Parker’s “Rsum” is a concise, darkly humorous poem exploring the varied methods one would possibly take into account ending one’s life. By way of a sequence of mordant vignettes, the speaker lists totally different strategies of suicide, finally dismissing every with a sardonic, world-weary tone. The poem’s brevity and easy construction amplify the influence of its grim subject material, making a stark distinction between the informal supply and the weighty theme. For instance, the road “Razors ache you;” illustrates this juxtaposition effectively.
This work gives a glimpse into the pervasive disillusionment and cynicism that characterised the Misplaced Technology. Printed in 1926, the poem displays the societal anxieties and existential questions that adopted World Conflict I. Its enduring enchantment lies in its capability to seize a way of despair with each wit and poignancy. “Rsum” serves as a major piece inside Parker’s bigger physique of labor, highlighting her signature mix of sardonic humor and insightful social commentary. The poem continues to resonate with readers for its exploration of common themes of despair, mortality, and the seek for that means.
