Marilyn : Book Review

"Marilyn" by Gloria Steinem is a captivating biography that delves into the life and legacy of the iconic actress Marilyn Monroe. Steinem skillfully goes beyond Monroe's glamorous facade to shed light on the challenges she faced as a woman in the male-dominated Hollywood industry.

Steinem's writing style is engaging and insightful, offering readers a fresh perspective on Monroe's life. She combines interviews, anecdotes, and her own analysis to paint a comprehensive picture of the actress. From Monroe's difficult childhood to her rise to stardom and her tragic end, Steinem covers all aspects of her life with empathy and nuance.

What sets "Marilyn" apart from other biographies is Steinem's feminist lens. She explores the societal pressures and expectations placed upon Monroe, highlighting the ways in which she was objectified and mistreated by the industry. Steinem recognizes Monroe's intelligence, ambition, and dedication to her craft, making a compelling argument for her as a complex and talented woman who often faced underestimation.

Moreover, Steinem delves into Monroe's personal struggles, including her relationships with powerful men and her battle with mental health issues. She offers a compassionate analysis of the impact these challenges had on Monroe's life and career, dispelling common misconceptions and humanizing the legendary actress.

Overall, "Marilyn" is a thought-provoking biography that celebrates the life of Marilyn Monroe while also exposing the dark underbelly of the entertainment industry. Gloria Steinem's writing is both informative and empathetic, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of Monroe's life and the societal factors that shaped her.

What are readers saying?

The book "Marilyn" by Gloria Steinem, a renowned feminist and social activist, has received a mixture of reviews from readers. While many appreciate Steinem's exploration of the cultural phenomenon surrounding Marilyn Monroe, some criticized aspects of the book.

Readers commend Steinem for going beyond the surface of Monroe's glamorous image and shedding light on the complexities of her life and career. They value the author's analysis of Monroe's struggles with self-image, relationships, and societal pressures, which resonates with them and offers a deeper understanding of the iconic actress. Additionally, reviewers highlight the unique perspective that Steinem's feminist lens brings to the story, dissecting the objectification of women in Hollywood.

On the other hand, some readers express disappointment in certain aspects of the book. They find Steinem's writing style to be dry and academic, which makes it challenging for them to fully engage with the subject matter. Some also wish for more personal anecdotes or insights from the author herself, as they feel that a more personal touch would enhance the reading experience. Additionally, a few reviewers note that the book occasionally lacks a clear structure, causing it to feel disjointed at times.

Overall, "Marilyn" by Gloria Steinem offers valuable insights into the life and legacy of Marilyn Monroe. The book delves into the complexities of her identity as a widely recognized woman and explores the impact of societal expectations on her life. It is lauded for its in-depth analysis and feminist viewpoint, which shed light on the challenges that Monroe faced during her time. However, the book's writing style and occasional lack of coherence in structure may not appeal to all readers. Despite these criticisms, it remains a thought-provoking exploration of the iconic actress and the enduring cultural fascination surrounding her.