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The Marilyn Shelf
Marilyn: The Last Months
by Eunice Murrey and Rose Shade
publisher Pyramid Books, New York
(c) 1975
in paperback
While
reading this book, one can almost hear Marilyn's voice echoing
from the bare walls of the rooms and hallways of her new Brentwood
home. The undertone of this story was one of loneliness
and solitude. Eunice Murray was a companion during those
last months, and the insight she provides into Marilyn's life
is invaluable in helping us know Marilyn today. Murray appears
tireless in her efforts to help Marilyn be happy.
Murrey tells of a contemplative Marilyn . While she may not have planned on dying on that day , she always knew the possibilty existed that she might go too far. For example, much has been made of Marilyn's knowledge of pharmacology. Unfortunately, no one knew back then the affect those drugs had on their bodies. Marilyn was thirty six years old and had been sick with the flu perhaps since her return from Mexico. It's just possible that her body was changing and couldn't take the abuse any more.
The story of Marilyn: The Last Months does make compelling reading and the photos included show a vivacious Marilyn. There are eight pages of excellent black and white photos by Grant taken in her new Brentwood home. The question "What if..." nags at anyone with a conscience. The only conspiracy here was one of silence and shame.
While the narrative of the book reads like a documentary, Marilyn's laughter still filters through. Look for this little gem of a book at second hand bookstores in your area, also check out the internet auctions as a copy may come available from time to time.
preston
