“I used to get the feeling, and sometimes I still get it, that sometimes I was fooling somebody; I don’t know who or what, maybe myself.”
- June 1, 1926 – August 5, 1962
- American
- Actress, Singer, Model, Pop Culture Icon
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Quote
“I used to get the feeling, and sometimes I still get it, that sometimes I was fooling somebody; I don’t know who or what, maybe myself.”
Explanation
This quote reveals Marilyn Monroe’s deep self-doubt and emotional complexity, offering a glimpse into her internal struggle with identity and authenticity. Her admission that she felt like she was “fooling somebody” suggests an ongoing sense of imposter syndrome, the belief that her success or persona might not be entirely real or deserved. The uncertainty about whom she’s fooling—even herself—shows just how profound her inner conflict could be.
As someone who lived in the spotlight, Monroe was often forced to perform not just on screen, but in everyday life. The image of “Marilyn Monroe” was carefully crafted, and beneath it lived Norma Jeane—a woman who longed for recognition beyond beauty and fame. This quote illustrates her awareness that the boundary between reality and illusion was sometimes blurred even for her. It’s a confession of feeling disconnected from her public image, and perhaps even from her own self-perception.
In today’s world, her words echo the experiences of many who feel pressured to live up to constructed identities—whether in careers, relationships, or social media. Monroe’s quote is a reminder that authenticity is a fragile, ongoing pursuit, and that even the most admired individuals may wrestle with the fear of being a fiction. It’s a deeply human statement about the search for truth in the midst of performance.
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