Introduction
Dolly Parton’s legendary status as a singer, songwriter, actress, and philanthropist is undeniable. Over a career spanning six decades, she has become more than just a beloved entertainer—she has emerged as a rare figure of unity in an increasingly polarized society. But what exactly makes Dolly Parton such a universally adored cultural icon?
Will Bonfiglio, a lecturer in American culture studies at Washington University in St. Louis, explores this question in his course “A Diamond in a Rhinestone World: The Performance and Politics of Dolly Parton.” According to Bonfiglio, Parton’s appeal defies traditional boundaries. “She connects to everyone,” he says. “The left and the right, blue collar, white collar, young, old, across race, across sexuality—what is it about her that resonates so broadly?”
The class takes a multidisciplinary approach to understanding Parton’s impact, bringing together students from diverse fields such as architecture, business, engineering, and American culture studies. Some students are die-hard fans who have visited Dollywood, while others are newcomers to her music and persona. This mix of perspectives, Bonfiglio notes, fosters deep, often surprising discussions.
One key to Parton’s wide-ranging appeal, according to both Bonfiglio and his students, is her avoidance of divisive rhetoric. Rather than wading into political or religious debates, she focuses on themes of love, hope, acceptance, and community. “Dolly is the perfect conduit for urgent conversations because she blazes her own trail,” Bonfiglio explains. “She’s a great unifier by embodying values that resonate universally.”
Student Hannah Gallin shares this view, pointing out that Parton’s subtle, non-political influence can be as powerful as any policy or legislation. “This class revealed how apolitical figures, such as Dolly Parton, have been similarly, if not more, influential,” she says. By sidestepping controversies, Parton can bring people together rather than drive them apart.
Beyond her values, Parton’s enduring appeal is also a result of her multifaceted career. Her music, which students analyze in class, serves as the foundation of her connection to fans. From iconic hits like “Jolene” to lesser-known tracks such as “Backwoods Barbie,” her songs tell stories that resonate across generations. In addition, her business ventures—from Dollywood to her cookbook line—further demonstrate her creativity and entrepreneurial spirit.
Perhaps most importantly, Parton’s generosity has touched countless lives. Her philanthropic initiatives, including the Imagination Library and funding research for the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, have earned her admiration from all corners. “She’s constantly sharing her wealth,” Bonfiglio says. “That generosity might be the key to her role as a unifier.”
Through her timeless music, charitable work, and universal values, Dolly Parton offers a beacon of hope and unity. In a country often divided by cultural and political differences, she continues to show that compassion, kindness, and a good dose of rhinestone sparkle can still bring people together.
Dolly Parton – Coat Of Many Colors
Lyrics
Back through the years
I go wonderin’ once again
Back to the seasons of my youth
I recall a box of rags that someone gave us
And how my momma put the rags to use
There were rags of many colors
But every piece was small
And I didn’t have a coat
And it was way down in the fall
Momma sewed the rags together
Sewin’ every piece with love
She made my coat of many colors
That I was so proud of
As she sewed, she told a story
From the Bible she had read
About a coat of many colors
Joseph wore and then she said
Perhaps this coat will bring you
Good luck and happiness
And I just couldn’t wait to wear it
And momma blessed it with a kiss
My coat of many colors
That my momma made for me
Made only from rags
But I wore it so proudly
Although we had no money
I was rich as I could be
In my coat of many colors
My momma made for me
So with patches on my britches
And holes in both my shoes
In my coat of many colors
I hurried off to school
Just to find the others laughing
And making fun of me
In my coat of many colors
My momma made for me
And oh, I couldn’t understand it
For I felt I was rich
And I told ’em of the love
My momma sewed in every stitch
And I told ’em all the story
Momma told me while she sewed
And how my coat of many colors
Was worth more than all their clothes
But they didn’t understand it
And I tried to make them see
That one is only poor
Only if they choose to be
Now I know we had no money
But I was rich as I could be
In my coat of many colors
My momma made for me
Made just for me