Meaning: Christine Keeler, a British model and showgirl, made this statement in response to the public scrutiny and vilification she experienced due to her involvement in the Profumo affair in the early 1960s. The scandal, which involved her affair with British Secretary of State for War John Profumo and a Russian naval attache, captivated the public and the media, leading to intense public scrutiny and character assassination of Keeler.

In this quote, Keeler expresses her frustration and the unfair treatment she received from society. She acknowledges that even a criminal has the right to start anew, but she feels that she was not given that opportunity. Instead, she was continually labeled and vilified, particularly as a "prostitute," a label that followed her for the rest of her life.

The Profumo affair and its aftermath had a profound impact on Keeler's life. Despite her involvement in the scandal, it's important to recognize that she was a young woman who found herself at the center of a political and social storm. The media's portrayal of her as a femme fatale and the public's judgment of her character had lasting consequences.

Keeler's quote reflects the enduring stigma and judgment that individuals, particularly women, can face in the aftermath of public scandals. It raises important questions about forgiveness, second chances, and the long-term impact of public scrutiny on an individual's ability to move on and live a fulfilling life.

The quote also serves as a reminder of the power dynamics at play in society and the media's role in shaping public perception. Keeler's experience sheds light on the double standards and harsh judgment often directed at women who find themselves embroiled in scandals, while the men involved may receive less severe treatment.

In the context of the 1960s, Keeler's quote highlights the challenges women faced in a society that was quick to label and shame them for their actions, especially when those actions challenged traditional gender roles and societal expectations.

Furthermore, the quote speaks to the broader issue of how individuals, particularly those in the public eye, are treated in the aftermath of their mistakes. It raises questions about redemption, forgiveness, and the right to move on from past indiscretions without being defined by them indefinitely.

In summary, Christine Keeler's quote reflects the enduring impact of public scrutiny and societal judgment, particularly on women involved in high-profile scandals. It serves as a reminder of the need for empathy, understanding, and the recognition of individuals' right to a second chance, free from the lasting stigma of their past actions. Keeler's experience continues to be a poignant example of the complexities and challenges faced by individuals thrust into the public eye and the lasting consequences of public judgment.