Marilyn Monroe: 'The thing I want more than anything else? I want to have children. I used to feel for every child I had, I would adopt another.'

The thing I want more than anything else? I want to have children. I used to feel for every child I had, I would adopt another.

Marilyn Monroe once expressed her deep desire to have children, stating, "The thing I want more than anything else? I want to have children. I used to feel for every child I had, I would adopt another." This quote highlights Monroe's strong maternal instinct and her longing to experience the joys and challenges that come with raising a child. She not only expressed her desire to have her biological children but also showed a willingness to extend her love and care through adoption. This sentiment reflects the depth of Monroe's capacity for love and her innate nurturing nature.While the quote itself holds great significance, let's delve into a philosophical concept that adds an unexpected twist and intrigue to the discussion of this topic – the notion of the metaphorical parent. In his book, "The Forgotten Language: An Introduction to the Understanding of Dreams, Fairy Tales, and Myths," Eric Fromm presents the idea of the metaphorical parents who carry out parental roles beyond the traditional sense of physical parenting. According to Fromm, metaphorical parents might include artists, thinkers, or individuals who devote their lives to the betterment of humanity. Their work, like that of a parent, is to nurture and guide others, providing emotional, intellectual, or spiritual support.In comparing and contrasting Marilyn Monroe's desire for children with Fromm's concept of metaphorical parenting, we uncover nuanced similarities and differences. Monroe's longing for biological and adoptive children can be seen as an extension of her selfless nature, reflecting her desire to provide care, love, and guidance to those who may not have their parents' support. Similarly, metaphorical parents such as artists or thinkers strive to create a positive impact on society, offering guidance, inspiration, and emotional support that may be absent in people's lives.While Monroe's focus was on the direct care and nurturing of physical children, metaphorical parenting broadens the definition to encompass those who contribute to the well-being of others on a larger scale. This expanded understanding challenges the traditional notion of parenting and highlights the diverse ways individuals can fulfill the role of a caregiver. Whether through adoption or metaphorical parenting, both ideas stem from a place of love and a desire to nurture and positively influence others.Furthermore, Monroe's expressed desire to adopt another child for each one she had speaks to her boundless capacity for caring and her willingness to extend her maternal instincts beyond the scope of immediate family. This echoes the concept of metaphorical parents, who often guide and support countless individuals throughout their lifetimes, acting as a beacon of love and knowledge for those in need.In conclusion, Marilyn Monroe's quote about her longing for children and her intention to adopt is imbued with profound meaning and significance. It reflects her deep yearning for motherhood and her innate nurturing nature. By introducing the concept of metaphorical parenting, we expand our understanding of the parental role beyond traditional boundaries. Both Monroe's desire to have children and metaphorical parenting share a common foundation of love, care, and a genuine concern for the well-being of others. Whether through adoption or the metaphorical guidance they provide, both contribute to the growth and development of individuals, reminding us of the incredible power of parental love in all its forms.