I'm thirty-six years old. I'm just getting started!
Marilyn MonroeRead
A sex-symbol becomes a thing, I just hate being a thing. But if I'm going to be a symbol of something I'd rather have it sex than some other things we've got symbols of.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Marilyn Monroe expresses her discomfort with being reduced to a mere object, yet prefers to be seen as a symbol of sex rather than something negative.
In this quote, Marilyn Monroe articulates her struggle with societal perceptions of beauty and sexuality. She acknowledges that being labeled as a 'sex-symbol' reduces her to a mere object or 'thing,' which she abhors. However, she expresses a preference for this label over others that might be associated with ugliness or negative traits, indicating a nuanced view of her identity in the context of public perception, fame, and the human experience of being objectified.
Themes
Sex-SymbolObjectificationIdentityPublic PerceptionFame
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about societal standards in a women's empowerment workshop, one might use this quote to highlight the challenges of objectification.
More from Marilyn Monroe
All quotes →I'm pretty, but not beautiful. _x000D_ I sin, but I'm not the devil. _x000D_ I'm good, but I'm not an angel.
Marilyn MonroeRead
My public is growing up just as I am. After all, I'm not 19 anymore and if I stick with the sex bit, who will be paying to see me when I'm 50?
Marilyn MonroeRead
A wise girl kisses but doesn't love, listens but doesn't believe, and leaves before she is left.
Marilyn MonroeRead
Beneath the makeup and behind the smile I am just a girl who wishes for the world.
Marilyn MonroeRead
You believe lies so you eventually learn to trust no one but yourself.
Marilyn MonroeRead
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