Dorothy Parker was an American writer and poet best known for her biting wit, wisecracks and keen eye for the urban foibles of the 20th century. From a troubled and unhappy childhood, Parker rose to prominence, both for her literary work in venues such as The New Yorker and as a founding member of the Algonquin Round Table. When the Round Table disbanded, Parker travelled to Hollywood to pursue screenwriting. Her successes there, including two Oscar nominations, were curtailed when her involvement in left-wing politics led to a place on the Hollywood blacklist, and she was dismissive of her own talents, lamenting her reputation as a "wisecracker". Nevertheless, her literary output and reputation for sharp wit have endured.
