“If there is only one thing in my life that I am proud of, it’s that I’ve never been a kept woman.”
- June 1, 1926 – August 5, 1962
- American
- Actress, Singer, Model, Pop Culture Icon
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Quote
“If there is only one thing in my life that I am proud of, it’s that I’ve never been a kept woman.”
Explanation
This quote reveals Marilyn Monroe’s fierce pride in her independence and personal agency, especially in a world that often expected women—particularly beautiful women—to trade autonomy for financial security. The term “kept woman” traditionally refers to someone supported by a wealthy partner in exchange for companionship, often with implied control. Monroe’s rejection of that role underscores her determination to build a life and career on her own terms, rather than being defined or sustained by a man.
Given the era she lived in—where many women, even in Hollywood, depended on powerful men to advance their careers—Monroe’s statement is an assertion of self-respect and hard-earned dignity. Though often sexualized and underestimated, she worked tirelessly to establish herself as a serious actress and to maintain control over her choices, even when doing so came at a personal cost. This pride in not being “kept” speaks to her inner strength and refusal to be owned or manipulated.
In today’s ongoing conversation about gender roles, power dynamics, and financial independence, Monroe’s words still resonate. They serve as a declaration that self-worth and personal achievement are more meaningful than comfort bought at the expense of freedom. Her quote is not just about rejecting dependence—it’s about affirming the value of one’s own labor, dignity, and right to self-determination.
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