The Genius Behind Dolly Parton's Humor

“I’m not offended by all of the dumb blonde jokes because I know I’m not dumb…and I also know that I’m not blonde.”

A Dolly Parton classic. Only one of the many, many quotes from the late, great singer/writer/actor/author. Woven throughout her genius in every medium was this uncharacteristic self-deprecation. Uncharacteristic of such an accomplished artist. Ms. Parton was one of the most respected writer/performers of at least the last fifty years and yet much of her humor reflected a wonderful sense of humor about herself.

“I have little feet because nothing grows in the shade.”

In a 2002 interview with the NY Times, Parton told the reporter, “Hopefully people can see beneath the hair to know there’s a brain, beneath the boobs to know there’s a heart and behind all the other stuff to know there’s some talent.”

“Some talent.” There it is again, the irrepressible humility. Other signature Parton qualities, reflected far beyond her work as an artist, were her generosity, her authenticity and her feminism. She had a unique way of telling the truth with her music and lyrics that made people able to hear her message with unique gentleness. Not preachy, not self-righteous, just full of compassion. And humor. 

Much will be written about her in the coming days, weeks, months and years. This is the impact she had on our culture. I want to take a moment here to specifically celebrate her sense of humor. Some highlights: 

“I was the first woman to burn my bra—it took the fire department four days to put it out”

“When I talk to a man, I can always tell what he’s thinking by where he’s looking. If he’s looking at my eyes, he’s looking for intelligence. If he’s looking at my mouth, he’s looking for wisdom. If he’s looking anywhere else except my chest, he’s looking for another man.” 

If you haven’t seen this clip, it’s Dolly’s first performance on The Johnny Carson Show - only 30, it’s a wonderful lesson in authenticity and staying completely in the moment. 

I also love this quote from Wide Open Country:

"It's a great compliment to me for people to record my songs," Parton acknowledges. "But sometimes I'd just as soon they didn't have, if it's gonna change the personality of it ... I can't say I ain't happy with it, 'cause you make the same money. Although if you're a writer from the heart, it ain't the money. 'Cause if you do something good, the money'll come anyway. But there have been times when it's been like someone taking one of your kids and doing plastic surgery on its face."

Rest in peace Dolly. Parton. We’ll always remember you for inspiring us not just to sing, but to have courage and grace and to tap all the best parts of being human.