“What’s the good of drawing in the next breath if all you do is let it out and draw in another?”
- June 1, 1926 – August 5, 1962
- American
- Actress, Singer, Model, Pop Culture Icon
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Quote
“What’s the good of drawing in the next breath if all you do is let it out and draw in another?”
Explanation
This existential question from Marilyn Monroe reflects a moment of profound introspection and emotional fatigue. The act of breathing—so essential and automatic—is here used as a metaphor for monotony, emptiness, and a lack of deeper purpose. By asking what the point is of drawing breath only to repeat the cycle, Monroe reveals a sense of disillusionment with life when it lacks meaning, connection, or fulfillment.
The quote likely stems from her own struggles with depression, isolation, and the pressures of fame. In a world that saw her as an icon, Monroe often felt detached from genuine emotion and overwhelmed by the demands placed on her identity. This statement captures the weight of a life that feels mechanical—where existence becomes a series of motions devoid of joy or significance.
In a broader context, the quote resonates with anyone who has experienced emotional exhaustion, depression, or existential doubt. It serves as a stark reminder of the importance of finding purpose, connection, and presence in everyday life. Monroe’s haunting words invite us to consider whether we are merely surviving—or truly living—and urge us to seek meaning beyond routine.
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