Marilyn Monroe, born Norma Jeane Mortenson, was an American actress, model, and singer who became an iconic symbol of beauty, glamour, and sexuality in the 1950s and 60s. Her tragic death at the age of 36 only added to her mystique and legacy. Monroe’s quotes are still widely discussed, analyzed, and admired today, as they reveal not only her wit, humor, and vulnerability but also her feminist and intellectual side. In this article, we have compiled a list of some of Marilyn Monroe’s most memorable and inspiring quotes, along with our own interpretations of their meanings and significance.
“I’m selfish, impatient, and a little insecure. I make mistakes, I’m out of control, and at times hard to handle. But if you can’t handle me at my worst, then you sure as hell don’t deserve me at my best.”
Marilyn Monroe
This quote is often cited as one of Marilyn Monroe’s most famous and empowering ones, as it challenges the traditional gender roles and expectations of women. By admitting her flaws and strengths, Monroe asserts her right to be herself and to demand respect and acceptance from others, especially men. She refuses to be a passive or submissive object of desire or a victim of society’s double standards.
“I don’t mind living in a man’s world, as long as I can be a woman in it.”
Marilyn Monroe
Monroe’s witty and ironic comment reflects her awareness of the gender inequalities and stereotypes that prevailed in her time and still exist today. She acknowledges that men have dominated many spheres of life and culture, but at the same time, she celebrates her femininity and uniqueness as a woman. She refuses to be reduced to a mere accessory or decoration in a male-dominated society but rather embraces her power and beauty as a woman.
“A career is wonderful, but you can’t curl up with it on a cold night.”
Marilyn Monroe
This quote reveals Monroe’s longing for love, affection, and intimacy, which she often felt deprived of in her personal life. Despite her fame, wealth, and success, she realized that a fulfilling and meaningful life cannot be based solely on material or professional achievements but also on emotional and spiritual connections with others. She craved a sense of warmth, comfort, and security that only human relationships can provide.
“We are all of us stars, and we deserve to twinkle.”
Marilyn Monroe
This quote expresses Monroe’s belief in the inherent worth and dignity of every human being, regardless of their social status, appearance, or background. She sees herself and others as shining stars, capable of illuminating the world with their talents, dreams, and aspirations. She encourages everyone to embrace their uniqueness and to never let anyone dim their light or extinguish their spirit.
“I believe that everything happens for a reason. People change so that you can learn to let go, things go wrong so that you appreciate them when they’re right, you believe lies so you eventually learn to trust no one but yourself, and sometimes good things fall apart so better things can fall together.”
Marilyn Monroe
This quote showcases Monroe’s philosophical and spiritual side, as she reflects on the nature of life, love, and loss. She believes in the interconnectedness and purposefulness of all events and experiences, even the painful ones. She sees them as opportunities for growth, learning, and transformation, and as tests of one’s resilience, wisdom, and faith. She trusts in her own intuition and strength, and encourages others to do the same.
“I’ve been on a calendar, but I’ve never been on time.”
Marilyn Monroe
This quote showcases Monroe’s playful and flirtatious side, as she jokes about her reputation for being late or absent-minded. She also hints at the pressures and expectations that come with fame and celebrity, as well as the artificiality and superficiality of the entertainment industry. She refuses to take herself too seriously and to conform to the norms and standards of the Hollywood machine.
“Sex is a part of nature. I go along with nature.”
Marilyn Monroe
This quote reveals Monroe’s open and honest attitude towards sex and sexuality, which was considered taboo and scandalous in her time. She sees sex as a natural and healthy aspect of human existence, not as a sin or a shame. She rejects the puritanical and moralistic views of sex that were prevalent in her society and advocates for a more liberated and respectful approach to human sexuality.
“Imperfection is beauty, madness is genius, and it’s better to be absolutely ridiculous than absolutely boring.”
Marilyn Monroe
This quote showcases Monroe’s unconventional and anti-establishment views on art and creativity. She sees imperfections, flaws, and quirks as sources of inspiration and authenticity, not as defects or failures. She celebrates the madness and eccentricity of artists, as well as their courage and originality. She encourages everyone to embrace their own weirdness and to reject the conformity and mediocrity of mainstream society.
“I don’t want to make money, I just want to be wonderful.”
Marilyn Monroe
This quote showcases Monroe’s ambition and passion for her craft, as well as her desire for recognition and admiration. She sees acting as a form of art and self-expression, not as a means to an end. She values the quality and impact of her work, not the quantity or profit. She refuses to compromise her integrity or artistic vision for the sake of commercial success or societal expectations.
“It’s not true that I had nothing on. I had the radio on.”
Marilyn Monroe
This quote showcases Monroe’s humor and wit, as well as her ability to turn a scandalous situation into a funny one. She refers to the famous photo shoot she did for a men’s magazine, in which she posed nude except for a pair of high heels and a radio. She challenges the prudish and sexist attitudes that condemn female nudity and sexuality, and instead embraces her own body and sensuality with confidence and humor.
These are just a few examples of Marilyn Monroe’s legacy of wit, wisdom, and rebellion. Her quotes continue to inspire and empower people of all ages and backgrounds, and to challenge the stereotypes and prejudices that still plague our society. Whether she was talking about love, life, art, or politics, Marilyn Monroe always spoke from the heart and with a unique voice that resonates to this day.
