If you have only heard about Marilyn Manson through the rumors and controversies that surround him, these Marilyn Manson quotes just might change your mind about him. There is much more to him than odd makeup and shocking stage shows (although that is one thing to love about him). These thought provoking Marilyn Manson quotes just might make you see him in a totally different light.
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1. On the Columbine High School Shooting…
Out of all of the Marilyn Manson quotes out there, his quote on Columbine is my all time favorite. As you may know, after the tragic school shooting at Columbine High School, the media was looking for answers. Marilyn Manson became an easy scapegoat for the crime. News sites everywhere were reporting the shooters were big Marilyn Manson fans and that he had to be the reason why they committed such a horrific crime. It came out later that the kids weren’t Marilyn Manson fans at all and didn’t even own a single CD of his. Still, the media pointed fingers at the shock rocker. Michael Moore made a documentary over gun control called “Bowling for Columbine,” where he was looking for answers as to why the kids would do something so horrific and wondered if America’s culture could have something to do with it. In the documentary, he interviewed Marilyn Manson and asked, “What if the kids at Columbine were here today, what would you say to them?” Marilyn Manson replied, “I wouldn’t say anything. I’d listen to them, which nobody else did.” This thought-provoking quote really puts a different perspective on life. Who do you know that needs a friend or just someone to talk to? Just lending your ear could be enough to change their life and the world.
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Manson's deep-cut wisdom shines a light on the importance of empathy and understanding. In the face of tragedy, we often rush to judgment or scramble for an easy explanation. Manson's perspective invites us to pause and engage more compassionately with those around us. His response is a poignant reminder that sometimes, what's needed most is a sympathetic ear rather than a voice—a testament to the power of listening over assigning blame. This simple, yet powerful stance challenges us to reconsider how we interact with and support others in society.
2. On Standing up for Yourself…
“We live in a society of victimization, where people are much more comfortable being victimized than actually standing up for themselves.” This Marilyn Manson quote really makes you look into your own life. Do you stand up for yourself, your morals, and your beliefs? Or, do you allow yourself to play the role of the victim and idly sit by? I agree with Marilyn Manson that this is a mindset we have to change.
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Marilyn Manson is an American singer, songwriter, record producer, actor, and visual artist. He is best known for his controversial stage persona and image as the lead singer of the eponymous band Marilyn Manson. His stage name was formed by combining and juxtaposing the names of two American cultural icons, actress Marilyn Monroe and criminal Charles Manson.
Manson's music has been classified as industrial rock, industrial metal, alternative metal, glam rock, and shock rock. His lyrics often incorporate political, religious, and social commentary. His live performances have been known to be confrontational and shocking, featuring elaborate stage designs, shock effects, and unusual costumes.
Marilyn Manson has been an outspoken critic of organized religion, social conservatism, and the mainstream media. He has also been a strong advocate for individualism and freedom of expression, and is a vocal supporter of LGBT rights. He has been accused of promoting violence, misogyny, and racism, though he denies such accusations.
Frequently asked questions
In an interview, Manson famously said that he wouldn’t have said anything to the perpetrators; instead, he would have listened to them. It really makes you think about the importance of listening over speaking sometimes.
People find Manson's quotes interesting because they offer a different perspective on who should take responsibility and how media can influence behavior. It's thought-provoking and really challenges mainstream views.
Absolutely! His lyrics often delve into complex themes about life, society, and personal identity. They're packed with raw emotion and encourage listeners to think deeply about the world around them.
His quotes and interviews often reveal a side of him that’s introspective and deeply thoughtful. They can challenge preconceived notions about him being just a shock rocker and show that there’s intelligence and awareness behind his public persona.
Many people find Manson's take on life refreshing because he talks about embracing individuality and questioning societal norms. It's empowering and resonates with those who feel out of place or are searching for their own truth.
3. On Wishing…
In Manson’s song, “Man That You Fear,” he has a lyric that says, “When all of your wishes are granted, many of your dreams will be destroyed.” While it sounds nice in theory to be able to get whatever you want just by making a wish, it’s a lot better to work hard to achieve your dreams. I think this Marilyn Manson quote really puts that into perspective. Don’t waste time wishing, go out there and make your dreams a reality.
4. On Love…
This is one Marilyn Manson quote some may disagree with, but I find it very thought provoking nonetheless. “When you’re taught to love everyone, to love your enemies, then what value does that place on love?” While this goes against what we’re taught at a young age, I do think Manson has a point here. It’s true you shouldn’t judge people or have a heart filled with hate, but should you love everyone, or is that something that comes with time and trust? I love quotes like this that make us challenge the things we’ve been told to believe.
5. On Life…
“In the end we’re all Jerry Springer Show guests, really, we just haven’t been on the show.” Sure, this Marilyn Manson quote may be funny, but it’s true as well. Everyone has their own drama and baggage in life. What’s important is how you choose to handle your drama and that you don’t judge others for theirs.
6. On Entertainment…
When asked about adult entertainment, Marilyn Manson had this to say, “Is adult entertainment killing our children? Or is killing our children entertaining our adults?” Like many Marilyn Manson quotes, this one challenges you to see something in a different light. Maybe instead of blaming our culture for violence in children, we should change our culture from finding it entertaining. The media has a way of glamourizing crimes and criminals and we need to find a way to change that.
7. On Hate…
“People only hate what they see in themselves.” This is important to remember whenever you are being bullied, picked on, or made fun of. Many times, bullies pick on people who reflect their own insecurities. Sometimes understanding where hate comes from can make you feel better about being on the receiving end of it. So next time you find yourself getting unnecessary hate, remember this insightful Marilyn Manson quote.
8. On Being Who You Are...
No one is the same as anyone else, but Marilyn Manson sums it up well by saying, "I never said to be like me, I say to be like you and make a difference." It's true that many people exert an extraordinary amount of time trying to be like everyone else, but using who you are to make a difference is one of the best things anyone can do. When you feel that your different, embrace that and see it for the truly wonderful thing that it is.
9. On Truth...
I think Marilyn Manson is on to something here. He says, "You can't find the truth, you just pick the lie you like best." This may be especially true when it comes to politics, but that's another story. I think what Manson is saying here is that in a world where we're bombarded by so many celebrities and news stories, it's hard to discern what's true and what's not. In essence, it's up to you to do the research and figure things out rather than believing whatever you hear.
10. On Marriage...
"If you're going to do something like getting married, it should have a sense of celebration to it. It should be grand." I like the simplicity of this quote because Marilyn Manson is simply saying that there are certain things in life that shouldn't be taken lightly. Instead, they should be celebrated for the awesome event that they are. So go ahead and have a party when you feel like it's necessary.
11. On Parenting...
It seems a lot of people lacking in experience want to tell us how to raise our kids. While I think it takes a certain amount of time in the trenches to give anyone the right to offer parenting advice, I like when Marilyn Mason says, "This is the culture you're raising your kids in. Don't be surprised if it blows up in your face." In other words, if you're going to give in to ideals you don't believe in, don't act shocked when your kids choose the same.
12. On Violence...
This might be one of my favorites: "Times have not become more violent. They have just become more televised." This is so true. With all the murder, rape and other violence in mainstream media, it's easy to think that it's just happening more. In fact, many cities are experiencing a reduction in violent crime, but you sure wouldn't know that from watching the news, movies and sitcoms.
13. On His Future...
No one is going to agree with everything Marilyn Manson says and this quote is sure to be controversial. He says this, "You should have to pass an IQ test before you breed. You have to take a driving test to operate vehicles and an SAT test to get into college. So why don't you have to take some sort of
test before you give birth to children? When I am President, that's the first rule I will institute." Really?! Well, I may not agree with the precise words he's saying, but I think the point is that we all have a lot of room for improvement and "when" not "if" we're in the position to change things, it's our responsibility to do so.
All of these Marilyn Manson quotes are insightful, inspiring, and through provoking. These are just 13 of my favorites, but you can find many more Marilyn Manson quotes like these. Did you know any of these quotes by him? If not, did they make you change the way you think about him?
This article written in collaboration with editor, Eliza Martinez
Comments
Emma: Thank you for this, I have always thought against the people blaming him for Columbine. I'm saving this article so I can later prove a point
Yustika: Wow Marilyn, I've never thought of him as a sensitive, nice, deep person. I love his quotes
Larry: This is ridiculous article because almost everyone of MM quotes have been around long before I was born and I am 56 y/o. All he has done is taken a saying and put it into his words, which I do not find interesting or remarkable. A prime example is the one about stand up for what you belive. The one I grew up with was "If you do not stand up for what you believe in, you will fall for anything". If anything, MM has done some existential reading. I guess it must get boring on the road and gives you lots of time to read. Some of my favorite sayings are " don't ask me what I think of you, I might give you the answer you want me too" and "don't ask me no questions and I'll tell you no lies". ;-)
Pratz:
Tee: MM
Leila: You can love everyone, even your enemies, because if we accept the source of love, which is God, into our hearts, we will never run out. That's the truth.
Lala: You have never thought quite wise quotes from Marilyn just goes to show don't judge a book by itscover
Nina: I was never a fan of his or his music but these quotes really show a sensitive, smart young man who should be listened to more than most other 'celebrities'!!! I have to admit I judged a book by its cover, owe him an apology and can now truly say I admire this guy for his intellect!
Elina: Marilyn's lyrics are so great as well! He's my number one favorite artist!
Rachael: He still scares me the way he looks haha but amazing quotes!
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