"À Hollywood, une starlette est le nom donné à toute femme de moins de trente ans qui n'est pas activement employée dans un bordel."

This quote paints a rather stark picture of Hollywood's treatment and perception of young women. It's saying that in the entertainment industry, young actresses are often viewed in an overly sexualized and objectifying way. If a young woman isn't constantly working, the implication is she's valued more for her appearance and youth than her talent. It's a pretty cynical take on how Hollywood works, suggesting that the line between being a respected actress and being viewed as an object is pretty thin.

Historically, this attitude isn't new. Hollywood has long been criticized for its treatment of women, from the casting couch scandals to the more recent revelations of the #MeToo movement. The entertainment industry often glorifies youth and beauty, sometimes at the expense of recognizing talent and experience. This quote probably emerged from a time when actresses were fighting to be taken seriously for their art, battling the stereotypes and objectification that came with their profession.

Think about Marilyn Monroe. She was one of the biggest stars ever, known worldwide for her beauty and charm. But she struggled deeply with the way she was viewed—often more as a pretty face than as a serious actress. Despite her talents, she found herself pigeonholed into roles that capitalized on her bombshell image, and it took a toll on her personally and professionally.

If you're trying to apply this wisdom, especially if you're in a creative field, it would be to recognize and value your own worth beyond how others might see you. Focus on your skills, your growth, and don't let yourself be defined by superficial standards. If you're managing others, make it a point to look beyond the surface and appreciate the deeper qualities and talents people bring.

Imagine a young actress named Sarah. She's just landed in LA, starry-eyed and full of dreams. At first, she's thrilled with all the attention—photoshoots, parties, the whole nine yards. But soon she realizes that everyone seems more interested in her looks than her acting chops. Instead of getting meaningful roles, she's typecast in the same shallow parts. It starts to wear on her. Sarah decides to take control. She enrolls in acting classes, starts writing her own scripts, and surrounds herself with people who see her talents. She turns down roles that don't offer her growth as an artist, even if it means working less for a while.

Sarah's story isn't unique, but it shows how you can navigate an industry that might try to define you by its own shallow standards. By valuing your own skills and choosing to invest in personal growth, you can carve out a space where your talents stand front and center. So next time you're faced with a situation where you feel undervalued, think of Sarah—and remember that you're more than just the sum of others' perceptions.