Norma Jeane Mortenson, or Marilyn Monroe to the rest of the world, was an American model, singer, and one of the most popular and beautiful actresses of all time.
Born in 1926, she mostly spent her youth living in foster homes, but she overcame her humble beginnings and soared to fame during the 1950s. Monroe’s career began as a successful pin-up model in her teenage years, which eventually led to film contracts. Although she was on the spotlight for only a decade, her films grossed for over $200 million by the time of her sudden death.
She died in 1962 from an apparent drug overdose, and although the world lost her at the age of 36, her legacy remains. More than half a century later, she remains to be a notable culture and movie icon.
In addition to her acting and singing talents, Marilyn Monroe possessed wisdom and left us with some of the most heartfelt quotes of all time. Here are the top Marilyn Monroe quotes and sayings to empower your day!
Fun fact: Marilyn was so serious about self-improvement, she owned over 400 books—ranging from philosophy to poetry!
Table of Contents
Best Marilyn Monroe Quotes (All-Time Classics)
These are the timeless lines that have inspired generations, quoted in interviews, books, and Monroe’s own writings.
Imperfection is beauty, madness is genius and it’s better to be absolutely ridiculous than absolutely boring.
— As quoted in “Marilyn: Her Life in Her Own Words” (1983)
Monroe championed the beauty of individuality and self-acceptance, inspiring us to embrace our quirks.
I’m selfish, impatient and a little insecure. I make mistakes, I am 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.
— Attributed in “Marilyn Monroe: The Biography” by Donald Spoto (1993)
This quote highlights Monroe’s honesty about her flaws and her call for authentic love and acceptance.
We are all of us stars, and we deserve to twinkle.
— Quoted in “Marilyn” by Norman Mailer (1973)
She believed everyone has a special light inside—an empowering reminder to recognize our own worth.
On Love & Relationships
Monroe’s take on love was passionate and honest, often tinged with both hope and heartbreak.
A wise girl kisses but doesn’t love, listens but doesn’t believe, and leaves before she is left.
— From interviews, quoted in “My Story” (1974)
Monroe’s advice speaks to protecting one’s heart while still enjoying life’s pleasures.
The real lover is the man who can thrill you by kissing your forehead or smiling into your eyes or just staring into space.
— Quoted in “Marilyn: The Last Take” by Peter Harry Brown (1992)
She valued genuine affection over grand gestures, reminding us love is often found in the simplest moments.
On Beauty & Self-Image
Marilyn Monroe was an icon of beauty, but she often challenged superficial definitions.
Wanting to be someone else is a waste of the person you are.
— Quoted in “Marilyn Monroe: The Biography” by Donald Spoto (1993)
Her words encourage us to embrace our unique identity, no matter the world’s standards.
To all the girls that think you’re fat because you’re not a size zero, you’re the beautiful one, it’s society who’s ugly.
On Life & Ambition
Beyond glamour, Monroe had thoughtful reflections on work, dreams, and perseverance.
I don’t want to make money. I just want to be wonderful.
— As quoted in “Marilyn Monroe: The Biography” by Donald Spoto (1993)
Monroe was driven by a desire to create, not just to achieve fame or fortune.
Fear is stupid. So are regrets.
— Interview, 1962, quoted in “Marilyn Monroe: The Biography”
She reminds us that fear and regret only hold us back from living fully.
On Fame & Identity
Fame shaped Monroe’s life, but she understood its double-edged nature.
Fame doesn’t fulfill you. It warms you a bit, but that warmth is temporary.
— Quoted in “Marilyn Monroe: The Biography”
Despite her stardom, Monroe recognized the emptiness fame can bring without genuine self-worth.
On Strength & Vulnerability
Monroe’s life was filled with challenges—her words on resilience are especially poignant.
Sometimes good things fall apart so better things can fall together.
— Attributed in “Marilyn: Her Life in Her Own Words” (1983)
She found hope in hardship, a lesson that continues to resonate for many.
I restore myself when I’m alone.
— Quoted in “Marilyn: Her Life in Her Own Words”
Monroe valued solitude as a way to regain strength and clarity.
Why Marilyn’s Words Still Matter
Marilyn Monroe’s quotes aren’t just echoes from Hollywood’s Golden Age—they are reminders to value ourselves, seek meaning beyond surface, and love authentically. Her vulnerability and wisdom continue to inspire millions to this day.
