To be completely woman you need a master, and in him a compass for your life. You need a man you can look up to and respect. If you dethrone him it's no wonder that you are discontented, and discontented women are not loved for long.

The quote "To be completely woman you need a master, and in him a compass for your life. You need a man you can look up to and respect. If you dethrone him it's no wonder that you are discontented, and discontented women are not loved for long" by Marlene Dietrich reflects a traditional view of gender roles and the dynamics of relationships. In this statement, Dietrich seems to suggest that a woman’s sense of fulfillment and balance comes from having a partner she can respect and admire, someone who provides both guidance and stability in her life. The term "master" here can be seen as a metaphor for the leadership or strength a woman might seek in a partner.

Dietrich implies that if a woman undermines or disrespects the man she is with—essentially "dethroning" him—this disrupts the harmony in the relationship and leads to discontent. She suggests that a man’s ability to lead, provide direction, and maintain the respect of his partner is critical to the longevity of the relationship. Without this dynamic, the woman may feel unfulfilled, and the relationship will suffer as a result.

The origin of this quote comes from Dietrich's career as an actress, singer, and icon, where she was known for her charm, confidence, and occasionally controversial views on relationships and gender. Her perspective on gender roles was reflective of the time she lived in, when traditional views on relationships were more commonly upheld. However, Dietrich herself was known for challenging conventions in many aspects of her life, making this quote somewhat paradoxical, as it seems to advocate for a more traditional, male-dominated relationship dynamic.

Ultimately, Dietrich's quote suggests that in her view, respect and mutual admiration in a relationship are essential for its success and emotional fulfillment. While the statement may seem outdated by modern standards, it reflects a perspective on the dynamics of power and balance in relationships that was prevalent in the early 20th century.