“Experts on romance say for a happy marriage there has to be more than a passionate love. For a lasting union, they insist, there must be a genuine liking for each other. Which, in my book, is a good definition for friendship.”

• June 1, 1926 – August 5, 1962
• American
• Actress, Singer, Model, Pop Culture Icon

Quote

“Experts on romance say for a happy marriage there has to be more than a passionate love. For a lasting union, they insist, there must be a genuine liking for each other. Which, in my book, is a good definition for friendship.”

Explanation

This quote reveals Marilyn Monroe’s thoughtful understanding of love and companionship, suggesting that passion alone is not enough to sustain a meaningful, lasting relationship. She echoes what many relationship experts have affirmed—that mutual respect, affection, and genuine liking are essential components of a strong marriage. By equating these qualities to friendship, Monroe reframes love as something grounded, enduring, and emotionally intimate, rather than just romantic or physical.

Given Monroe’s personal history—marked by high-profile marriages and emotional disappointment—this insight likely came from experience. Her words reflect a shift away from the idealized, Hollywood version of love toward something more realistic and emotionally sustaining. She recognized that the spark of attraction, while important, must be accompanied by trust, communication, and deep companionship—the qualities we most value in true friends.

In a modern context, the quote continues to resonate as a sober and sincere reflection on long-term relationships. Many couples discover that the most resilient marriages are those where partners not only love each other, but also enjoy each other’s company, share values, and communicate with ease. Monroe’s definition of friendship as the heart of a lasting union offers a timeless reminder that love built on friendship may be the strongest love of all.

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