In 1961, Marianne Kris, the psychoanalyst treating Marilyn Monroe, took a drastic step, believing the iconic actress was teetering on the brink of suicide.
Kris made the difficult decision to have Monroe admitted to a mental institution.
Monroe’s fear of psychiatric hospitals stemmed from her mother’s lifelong stay in one and her grandmother’s death in such a facility.
To coax Monroe into the institution, Kris misled her, stating it was a private retreat for some much-needed rest.
Monroe arrived at New York’s Payne Whitney hospital under false pretenses on Feb. 5 and found herself confined in a padded room against her will, lamenting her situation in letters to her acting mentors.
The events surrounding Monroe’s involuntary commitment are revisited in the recent bestseller, The Secret Life of Marilyn Monroe.
Author J. Randy Taraborrelli meticulously researched this 541-page biography, drawing from various sources, including FBI files, journalists’ notes from the 1950s, and unpublished correspondence related to Monroe.
While the book promises groundbreaking insights, it largely deepens the tragic narrative of Monroe’s enduring battle with her inner demons.
Monroe’s untimely death in 1962 spurred a flood of over 300 books attempting to dissect her complex persona.
Renowned writers like Norman Mailer and Gloria Steinem sought to unravel the mysteries surrounding her life.
Taraborrelli’s biography sheds light on Monroe’s tumultuous upbringing and early struggles with mental health, hinting that her psychological issues predated her skyrocketing career and subsequent substance abuse.
One intriguing aspect of Monroe’s life explored in the biography is her peculiar relationship with psychiatrist Ralph Greenson.
Greenson, known for his unconventional methods, believed Monroe would benefit from a stable family environment and often invited her to spend time with his own family.
Despite criticisms from colleagues and friends, Greenson remained a steadfast presence in Monroe’s life, intervening in her professional matters and personal affairs.
The revelation of secret tapes recorded by Monroe for Greenson shortly before her death added another layer of complexity to their bond.
The transcripts, disclosed by former prosecutor John W. Miner, unveiled intimate details about Monroe’s life, including revelations about her relationships and desires.
The tapes underscored the intricate and enigmatic connection between Monroe and Greenson, portraying a mix of affection and unorthodox therapy methods.
Greenson’s controversial approach to treating Monroe raises questions about ethical boundaries and professional conduct.
Despite his efforts to aid Monroe, his interventions may have inadvertently fueled her inner turmoil.
The sealed documents related to Monroe’s treatment by Greenson leave room for speculation and interpretation, perpetuating the enigma surrounding their tumultuous alliance.
As Monroe’s story continues to captivate audiences, the underlying narrative remains one of profound tragedy rather than assigning blame to external factors or individuals.
At its core, Monroe’s saga is a poignant portrayal of a vulnerable soul grappling with overwhelming mental anguish and societal pressures.
