The death of Marilyn Monroe, one of the most iconic and beloved actresses of the 20th century, has been shrouded in mystery and controversy for decades. In her poem "Marilyn Monroe," Sharon Olds grapples with the complexities and contradictions of Monroe's life and death, using vivid imagery and emotive language to capture the enduring fascination with and sadness surrounding this cultural icon.
Olds begins the poem by describing Monroe as "the blonde in the photograph," capturing her enduring status as a symbol of glamour and sexuality. However, Olds also highlights the pain and vulnerability that lay beneath Monroe's public persona, describing her as "the girl who wanted / only to be loved, who went from man to man / in search of a father, a husband." This sense of longing and loneliness is further underscored by the image of Monroe "leaning on the arm of some / faceless man."
As the poem progresses, Olds delves into the various theories and speculations surrounding Monroe's death, including the possibility of suicide and the involvement of powerful figures such as the Kennedy brothers. Olds reflects on the "strange, sad aura" that surrounds Monroe's death, suggesting that it has become a kind of myth or legend in its own right.
Despite the mystery and tragedy of Monroe's death, Olds ultimately portrays her as a powerful and enduring symbol of femininity and sexuality. She describes Monroe's "dazzling, brilliant, desirable" body, which "lingers on in the minds of men," and suggests that Monroe's death has only further cemented her status as a cultural icon.
In conclusion, Sharon Olds' poem "Marilyn Monroe" is a poignant and powerful tribute to the actress, exploring the complexities and contradictions of her life and death with sensitivity and insight. Through vivid imagery and emotive language, Olds captures the enduring fascination with and sadness surrounding Monroe, ultimately portraying her as a powerful and enduring symbol of femininity and sexuality.
