Experts on romance say for a happy marriage there has to be more

Yes — that quote is correctly attributed to Marilyn Monroe, the iconic American actress, model, and singer, who is widely remembered not only for her beauty but also for her insights into love, relationships, and human emotions.

“Experts on romance say for a happy marriage there has to be more than a passionate love. For a lasting union, they insist, there must be a genuine liking for each other. Which, in my book, is a good definition for friendship.”
— Marilyn Monroe

Context and Background

Marilyn Monroe often shared her reflections on love, relationships, and personal happiness, which were shaped by her own experiences in the spotlight. This quote comes from her musings on romantic relationships and how they are built on more than just passion. Monroe underscores the importance of compatibility, mutual respect, and friendship as the foundation for long-lasting love. Despite the public’s obsession with her image and persona, Monroe also expressed deeper, often introspective views on life and relationships, making this quote a poignant reminder of the value of friendship in sustaining a marriage.

Interpretation

• “There has to be more than passionate love” — Monroe acknowledges that while passion is important, it isn’t the only essential ingredient for a healthy, lasting relationship.

• “Genuine liking for each other” — emphasizes the importance of emotional compatibility and mutual respect beyond just romantic or physical attraction.

• “Which, in my book, is a good definition for friendship” — Monroe suggests that the ideal romantic relationship is one where both partners enjoy each other's company and support each other as friends, showing that friendship is at the heart of any lasting union.

Summary

Marilyn Monroe's quote highlights her belief that a successful marriage or romantic relationship is built on mutual respect, affection, and friendship — not just intense passion. In her view, lasting love is rooted in genuine liking for one another, making friendship a key foundation for a relationship that endures over time. This wisdom reflects Monroe’s deeper understanding of relationships, beyond the glamour and surface-level emotions that often defined her public persona.