Marlene Dietrich, born Marie Magdalene Dietrich on December 27, 1901, in Berlin, Germany, was a trailblazing actress, singer, and cultural icon. Her illustrious career included starring roles in films like “The Blue Angel” and “Morocco,” earning her an Academy Award for Best Actress in a Supporting Role in 1931. Dietrich’s bold style, humanitarian efforts during World War II, and performances for Allied troops cemented her legacy as a symbol of resilience and glamour. The quotes below, focused on themes of life, are sourced from interviews, books, and her own writings, offering glimpses into her wit and wisdom. This list presents 15 of her most insightful sayings, each standing as a testament to her reflective outlook.
15 Marlene Dietrich Quotes
1. “Life is a play that does not allow testing. So, sing, cry, dance, laugh and live intensely, before the curtain closes and the piece ends with no applause.” (Interview, Der Spiegel, 1960)
2. “The only real failure in life is not to be true to the best one knows.” (Book, “Marlene Dietrich’s ABC,” 1962)
3. “I am, thank God, an optimist. In this world, you have to be.” (Interview, Time Magazine, 1930)
4. “Life is too short to spend it with people who don’t appreciate you.” (Interview, n.d.)
5. “The best protection any woman can have is courage.” (Interview, The New York Times, 1933)
6. “Once a woman has forgiven a man, she must not reheat his sins for breakfast.” (Book, “Marlene,” 1979)
7. “I never cross a bridge until I come to it.” (Interview, Paris Match, 1962)
8. “Life is a lot like jazz… it’s best when you improvise.” (Interview, The Guardian, 1968)
9. “The hardest job kids face today is learning good manners without seeing any.” (Interview, Life Magazine, 1960)
10. “In America, sex is an obsession. In other parts of the world, it’s a fact.” (Interview, 1964, source unspecified)
11. “Life without passion is like a body without a soul.” (Book, “My Life Story,” 1973)
12. “I have a lot of living to do. I want to live while I’m alive.” (Interview, BBC Radio, 1970)
13. “The aim of life is to live, and to live means to be aware, joyously, drunkenly, serenely, divinely aware.” (Book, “Marlene Dietrich: An Autobiography,” 1979)
14. “Courage and grace are the two qualities I admire most in people.” (Interview, Vogue, 1950)
15. “Life is a game, play it with all your heart.” (Interview, n.d.)
These quotes from Marlene Dietrich paint a picture of a woman who embraced life with unyielding spirit, humor, and candor. They reveal her as a keen observer of human experiences, stressing themes of authenticity, resilience, and the importance of living fully. Dietrich’s words encourage us to face life’s challenges with grace and optimism, reminding us that true wisdom comes from lived experiences. What resonates with you? Share your thoughts or a favorite quote in the comments below and let’s discuss her enduring legacy.