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Ought Quote by Dorothy Parker

“People ought to be one of two things, young or dead.” quote by Dorothy Parker
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“People ought to be one of two things, young or dead.”

Dorothy Parker

About This Quote

Source Poem: The Portable Dorothy Parker, 1993

It humorously claims that the only acceptable states are youthful vitality or death, dismissing middle age as undesirable.

In simple terms: Only youth or death are acceptable.

Key Takeaway

Embrace youth or accept mortality.

Themes

youth death ageism

Mood

wry critical

Type

satirical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • career planning
  • health decisions
  • family planning
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

nihilism satire

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you fear aging?
  • What does a fulfilling middle age look like?
A Different Perspective

Life is more nuanced; middle age can be fulfilling.

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