Reading Marilyn

Marilyn Monroe remains one of the most written-about figures of the twentieth century. Yet behind the familiar image of the Hollywood star was a woman deeply engaged with literature, poetry and the examined life. A deep and serious reader, Monroe built an extensive personal library, and sought out writers, artists and photographers as friends and lovers.

In celebration of the centenary of her birth, this panel brings together three authors who have approached Monroe from different literary perspectives. Together they will explore Monroe’s lifelong relationship with books and reading, the challenges and complexities of writing a biography of such a mythologised figure, the challenge of representing Monroe through fiction, why she continues to inspire such fascination among writers, and much more.

Featuring:

• Gail Crowther, author of Marilyn and Her Books: The Literary Life of Marilyn Monroe
• Andrew Wilson, author of I Wanna Be Loved by You: Marilyn Monroe: A Life in 100 Takes
• Lynn Cullen, author of When We Were Brilliant, A fictionalised account of Monroe’s relationship with the pioneering photographer Eve Arnold

Moderated by Carrie Kania, Creative Director at Iconic Images.