I know we’re all grieving from the news of Dolly Parton’s passing. It felt like we had so much more time, so much more music, so many more iconic sayings. But in an instant, a great life is gone.
I remember when I first saw Dolly Parton.
It was in Steel Magnolias (1989). It’s one of my mother’s favorite movies. I could feel the chemicals in my brains begin to shift as she came onto my screen as Truvy, the hairdresser. Her blonde curls sprouting from her head in high 80s fashion. The southern accent poured from her mouth like sweet honey. I always wanted to sound like her and was absolutely demolished when I discovered I never would. She didn’t uphold the standard of natural beauty, but instead pioneered the idea of standing out.
But as gorgeous is she as in this film, her character stood out to me the most. Most southern women are stereotyped as submissive housewives who tend to their husbands and don’t work. Truvy from Steel Magnolias is strong, loud, expressive, and hardworking.
SHE OWNS HER OWN SALON!
And to break tradition even more, her husband relies on her. Her character is also compassionate and caring, maternal at times. Her love spreads far and wide, unwavering.
Dolly chose this role for a reason. Not just because of her character and what she represented, but what the movie demonstrates as a whole. Those women are all tougher than you think. So many different kinds of women in one movie. Old, young, fat, skinny, mothers, children. Now they could’ve had some more diversity. . . MAYBE IN A REBOOT?
Just kidding we don’t need one. It’s a classic. Let’s stop rebooting movies.
Anyway, back to Dolly!
For years and years, Dolly served as an excellent model for women and young girls. She wore extravagant clothing, beautiful nails, and big hair. She always fought for the rights of women and other minority groups. She was a star in many ways, but her work in these areas are some of the most impactful to me.
Dolly was absolutely fearless. She lived by her ability to share what she wanted when she wanted, and taught others to do the same. This woman never held back. Her wit and humor in every moment was undeniable. Dolly always had something to say. Her quotes are the things I think we’ll most hold onto.
“Smile, it increases your face value.”
“It’s a good thing I was born a girl, otherwise I’d be a drag queen.”
“If you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain.”
“Nobody notices that I’ve got a great ass too.”
“I’m not offended by dumb blonde jokes because I know that I’m not dumb. I also know that I’m not a blonde.”
~some of my favorites by Dolly
I never felt afraid to show my true colors. To be a little obnoxious and laugh a little loud. She was such a good model for womanhood.
I still can’t believe she’s passed. It was such a shock. Especially since I heard the news through a group chat. I thought she would be around for a long time. And now, I miss her more than when she was here. I guess that’s the funny thing about people.
I hope Dolly is resting in peace and shining in the sun like the beauty she is.