Marilyn Monroe rose
above a childhood marked by neglect, chaos & sexual abuse to become a cultural, psychological and spiritual phenomenon
of the Twentieth Century. Born Norma Jeane Baker, Marilyn Monroe (1926-1962) battled depression, anxiety, sexism and addiction
while establishing herself as a shining star, accomplished actress & historical figure. Marilyn continues to illuminate
the world & fascinate young people with her remarkable story.
Marilyn's idiosyncratic
style of requesting positive energy from her friends was to say, "Please hold a good thought for me." Forty-five years after
her untimely death, new generations continue to hold a good thought for this beloved woman & to admire her legacy of vulnerability,
strength, talent & beauty.
Marilyn's
screen image was often in contrast to her soulful, shy & introspective personality. Searching for identity, she set on
a personal journey toward growth, culture, knowledge & love. Part of Marilyn's enduring appeal may be the empathy her
pain & life experiences evoke in each of us. She inspires us to project our own subjective
interpretations onto her extraordinary life.
Marilyn was decades ahead of her time & greatly misunderstood. She was the first public figure
to disclose childhood sexual abuse & one of the few actresses of her generation to establish her own motion picture production
company. Before the advent of the Modern Women's Movement, Marilyn eloquently discussed objectification of women & advocated
for human rights. Her screen roles demonstrated a wide range within typecasting. Her characters were wise, gentle, nurturing.
They engendered goodness & compassion, taught lessons, and united opposing forces. Marilyn elevated the two-dimensional
archetype of the Dumb Blonde into a textured, satirical parody.
Ultimately, Marilyn's impact on the world overshadows the contribution of many statesmen. Her
life continues to elicit strong, emotional reactions & is celebrated & respected in our popular culture. "She was
(and still is) adored by men & women alike," wrote Nancy Valentino, "and the depths to which she can stir emotions of
both sexes indicate a profound sense of humanity."
Gary Vitacco-Robles
