“I don’t look at myself as a commodity, but I’m sure a lot of people have.”
- June 1, 1926 – August 5, 1962
- American
- Actress, Singer, Model, Pop Culture Icon
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Quote
“I don’t look at myself as a commodity, but I’m sure a lot of people have.”
Explanation
In this introspective quote, Marilyn Monroe acknowledges the disconnect between her self-perception and how she is viewed by others, particularly within the entertainment industry. By stating “I don’t look at myself as a commodity,” she affirms her belief in her inherent humanity, individuality, and worth beyond market value. However, her recognition that “a lot of people have” seen her that way underscores the objectification and commercialization she endured throughout her career.
Monroe’s fame was built largely on her image—a brand carefully packaged and sold, often without regard for her emotional depth or creative ambitions. This quote reveals her acute awareness of being reduced to a product, valued for beauty and allure more than intellect or soul. It’s a subtle critique of an industry, and a culture, that consumes individuals as symbols, frequently neglecting the complex person underneath.
In the modern era, where public figures are often branded and monetized through social media and celebrity culture, Monroe’s words remain strikingly relevant. They challenge us to consider how easily we dehumanize those in the public eye, and to reflect on how often people are treated as assets rather than as whole beings. Her insight stands as a call to recognize and protect the person behind the persona, both in others—and in ourselves.
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