John Lennon’s ‘God’: A Reflection on Belief and the Beatles
John Lennon's solo track 'God' holds a special place in the hearts of both Beatles fans and those intrigued by his personal journey. First released in 1970, the song marked a significant shift in Lennon's ideology and his personal beliefs, reflecting a deep-seated pain and disillusion as he faced the demise of the band he had co-created.
Early Impressions and Beliefs
When I first heard 'God' as a young teenager—around 14 years old—I was dealing with a whirlwind of emotions. My favorite band, the Beatles, was just breaking up, and the 'Plastic Ono Band' album seemed to encapsulate a dark and confusing period. The song's lyrics were a revelation, challenging the very nature of belief and idolatry. I remember feeling betrayed, as if my whole world had been shattered. Paul McCartney was releasing happier, more upbeat music, but John's lyrics were a stark contrast, reflecting a sense of despair and disillusionment. The song’s assertion that he no longer believed in the Beatles, or in the people he used to?believe in, struck a raw and painful chord.
Emotional Journey
During the initial phase, the song made me feel cold and angry. The idea of someone making us dream and then suddenly declaring the dream over was unsettling. Additionally, the revelation that John believed in Yoko Ono to a degree that he couldn’t believe in the Beatles or the people he used to believe in troubled me deeply. I felt a sense of betrayal, thinking 'why would he hate the Beatles? They were the band he started and the greatest of all time.' The interview with Rolling Stone magazine and the later song 'Number 9 Dream' only heightened these emotions, as John continued to reveal his shifting beliefs and perspectives.
Reefing with Innovation and Pain
Despite the emotional turmoil, 'God' and its thematic exploration of belief and non-belief resonated with me over time. It's a classic example of Lennon's evolving philosophy and perspective beyond the Beatles. While the song remains a poignant reminder of the human condition and our shifting ideologies, it also allows us to understand Lennon's pain and his struggle with identity and validation.
Summary
John Lennon's 'God' is more than just a song; it's a profound reflection on belief, identity, and the art of Lennon. Through his raw and honest lyrics, John shares his journey of disillusionment and the subsequent search for meaning. For fans of Lennon, the song serves as a reminder of the complexities of a legendary musician's life and how his beliefs evolved over time. For anyone grappling with their own beliefs, 'God' provides a powerful and relatable narrative.