“It’s nice to be included in people’s fantasies but you also like to be accepted for your own sake.”

- June 1, 1926 – August 5, 1962
- American
- Actress, Singer, Model, Pop Culture Icon
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Quote
“It’s nice to be included in people’s fantasies but you also like to be accepted for your own sake.”
Explanation
This quote by Marilyn Monroe captures the essential tension between public image and private self. As one of the most iconic symbols of beauty and desire in the 20th century, Monroe was often idealized as a fantasy figure, admired for her looks and persona more than for who she truly was. Her statement reflects a longing to be seen not just as an object of imagination, but as a real, complete person, with depth, vulnerabilities, and individuality.
The phrase “included in people’s fantasies” acknowledges the flattery and power that come with being admired, but Monroe’s deeper message lies in the second part: “accepted for your own sake.” This reveals a craving for genuine human connection and emotional authenticity, beyond the masks of glamour and fame. It highlights the emotional cost of being constantly objectified—the erasure of the person behind the image.
In today’s image-driven culture, this quote remains especially relevant. Celebrities, influencers, and even ordinary individuals on social media often experience the gap between how they are perceived and who they truly are. Monroe’s insight is a timeless reminder that true fulfillment comes not from admiration alone, but from being understood and valued as a whole person, not a projection.
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