The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo written by Taylor Jenkins Reid, tells the tale of an Old Hollywood iconic Actress, who, at age 79 gives a final interview about her life to a promising new writer, Monique Grant.
“When you’re given an opportunity to change your life, be ready to do whatever it takes to make it happen. The world doesn’t give things, you take things. If you learn one thing from me, it should probably be that.”
This quote takes place in Chapter 4, during a conversation in which Monique says that she’s not a biographer and Evelyn tells her the story of how she got to Hollywood by seducing Ernie Diaz. The quote encapsulates Evelyn’s life philosophy, which has driven her both to the heights of stardom and the depths of heartbreak. Throughout most of our main characters life, Evelyn has risen up to fortune and fame with this very mindset. We can see that she is not afraid to squash anyone (literally and figuratively speaking), in order to get what she wants. Like for example, when she framed Moniques father for the car crash in order to protect her dear friend Harry. Evelyn’s advice can be used by the reader to understand nearly every decision Evelyn makes is for her career and family.