In a world obsessed with labelling, Marilyn Monroe’s sexuality has become a subject of intense speculation. Here we will shed light on Marilyn Monroe’s views on sexuality, emphasising the importance of refraining from labelling others, especially when they are no longer here to defend themselves.
The Pitfall of Labels
Labels often create a false sense of security for those who use them. People are quick to assign labels like “queer-baiting” or make assumptions about someone’s sexual orientation without concrete evidence. This trend is not only unfair but also robs individuals of their right to privacy.
The TikTok Generation’s Interpretation
The TikTok generation has taken various aspects of Marilyn Monroe’s life and assigned labels like ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, and more. While it is essential to raise awareness about mental health, it is equally vital to base such claims on genuine and factual information. The same goes for sexuality.
Understanding Asexuality
Asexuality, as officially defined, refers to the lack of sexual attraction to others or low interest in sexual activity. However, it is crucial to note that Marilyn Monroe’s experiences do not align with asexuality, as she openly discussed her enjoyment of sex in interviews and conversations which you will see below.
Exploring Marilyn Monroe’s Perspective
Marilyn Monroe’s views on sex were often misunderstood or misinterpreted. While she expressed her lack of interest in sex during her early marriage, it is crucial to consider the circumstances surrounding her relationship. Marilyn’s first sexual experience was with a man she married for practical reasons, which may have influenced her perception of sex.
Sexuality in Marilyn’s Words
Marilyn Monroe spoke openly about her thoughts on sexuality, providing valuable insights into her perspective. Consider the following quotes:
“A man who kissed me once had said it was very possible, I was a lesbian because I apparently had no response to males – meaning him. I didn’t contradict him because I didn’t know what I was. There were times even when I didn’t feel human and times when all I could think of was dying. There was also the sinister fact that a well-made woman had always thrilled me to look at. Now having fallen in love, I knew what I was. It wasn’t a lesbian.” – Marilyn Monroe to Ben Hecht in 1954.
“The world and its excitement over sex didn’t seem crazy. In fact, it didn’t seem crazy enough.” – Marilyn Monroe to Ben Hecht in 1954
“I think that sexuality is only attractive when it’s natural and spontaneous. This is where a lot of them miss the boat. And then something I’d just like to spout off on. We are all born sexual creatures, thank God, but it’s a pity so many people despise and crush this natural gift. Art, real art, comes from it — everything.” – Marilyn Monroe to Richard Meryman in 1962.
“It’s a part of nature. I go along with nature.” – Marilyn Monroe discussing sex to Pete Martin in 1956.
“I sometimes felt I was hooked on sex, the way an alcoholic is on liquor or a junkie on dope.” – Marilyn Monroe to WJ Weatherby in 1960.
“I was remembering Monty Clift. People who aren’t fit to open the door for him sneer at his homosexuality. What do they know about it? Labels–people love putting labels on each other. Then they feel safe. People tried to make me into a lesbian. I laughed. No sex is wrong if there’s love in it But too often people act like it’s gymnasium work, mechanical. They’d be as satisfied with a machine from a chemist as with another human being. I sometimes felt they were trying to make me into a machine.” – Marilyn Monroe to WJ Weatherby in 1960.
“No director ever said, ‘Now Marilyn, be sexy!’ Sex isn’t a thing apart, it’s all of you. Sometimes, after a scene, somebody will say, ‘Great! Very sexy, Marilyn!’ But I have just done something very natural.” – Marilyn Monroe, LOOK magazine in 1957.