About this quote

In our darkest moments, when the weight of the world feels unbearable, finding a reason to keep going can seem impossible. Dorothy Parker’s iconic poem, 'Résumé,' approaches this heavy human experience with a sharp, pragmatic wit that strips away the romanticism of giving up. With dry humor, Parker lays out the absurd inconveniences and flaws of every exit strategy, arriving at a simple, rebellious conclusion: choosing life is, quite frankly, the best option on the table. There is profound comfort in this realistic perspective. Hope doesn't always have to arrive wrapped in grandiose speeches or blinding light; sometimes, it comes in the quiet, practical decision to simply see what tomorrow brings. When life tests your limits and exhaustion sets in, Parker’s words serve as a gentle nudge to stay anchored. Life is messy, painful, and unpredictable, but it is also full of unexpected joy, healing, and second chances that you can only experience if you stick around. If you are navigating a difficult season, let this poem remind you that staying alive is an act of bravery. Embrace the sheer resilience within yourself, lean into the messy beauty of existing, and give yourself permission to keep moving forward. After all, despite every hardship, you might as well live—and see how bright your story can still become.