A Poem For Marilyn — who, at her heart and core, was always Norma
Editor’s Note
Due to legal reasons, I cannot share the image originally intended for this piece. But perhaps that’s fitting — because some women, like Norma Jean, were never truly seen, only imagined.
Author’s Note
“Beneath every myth is a woman the world refused to understand.”
Marilyn Monroe was a symbol. But before the diamonds, the cameras, and the tragedy, she was Norma Jeane — a quiet, book-loving girl with dreams far larger than the role she was asked to play.
This poem is for the girl they never paused to read.
She was the simple girl, N,
full of hope and dreams—
naive to her core,
with dreams too wide for sleep.
She read books,
spoke less than she knew,
and hid her brilliance.
An intellect, no less—
one even Einstein perceived
in a moment of laughter between them:
Imagine having a child,”
she teased,
“with my beauty and your brains.”
“Yes,” he smiled,
“but what if it had my look and your brains?”
They even joked—
but she wore her genius
like a secret, under her sleeves.
She became M,
a name etched in glory and greatness.
By those relieved to believe the myth,
she was never more than a symbol and icon.
She became a story
they never paused to read.
But in their glow,
the girl who read in silence remained unseen.
And no matter the plea,
there was always
the sweet girl, fated to succeed — Jeane.
Disclaimer
This work is a creative interpretation and tribute. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by the estate of Marilyn Monroe or any related entity. All names and references are used with respect for artistic and educational purposes.
You are welcome to share this piece for non-commercial use — including the full poem — as long as proper credit is given to Ivy & Ink and a link to the original post is included. Please do not modify the poem or remove attribution.
Rooted in silence, written in shadows and the margins —
In Ivy & Ink is where stories linger and women find their voice between the lines.
🌒🪶🍂
IN IVY & INK 
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