08 December 2005

Imagine: A life incomplete

Today, 25 years ago, a music giant was slain before his life was completed. John Lennon was shot outside his flat in New York City, USA. Mr Lennon formed the Beatles, the British pop group that created a new genre in popular music. He band members were Sir Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Star. The group's musical success is legendary around the world and they had 21 hit singles in the USA and 17 in the UK.

John Lennon left us with a legacy that is enduring and captivating. His music is frequently sharp; witty; often poetic and always personal. He had a vision and he sang about it. He suffered the life of a genius amongst mere mortals and sang about it. He loved and hated and sang about it. John Lennon imagined this world living in peace; mutual love and understanding. And he sang about it. "Imagine" is his signature song. This is my tribute to him.

Imagine I had the eloquence of words to do him justice
Imagine I had the love of which he dreamed
Imagine I had the tolerance for which he yearned
Imagine I had the courage which he displayed
Imagine I had the wisdom he proclaimed
Imagine I could bring the peace that he envisioned
Imagine - it's not so hard to do
Imagine - I wonder if you can?

To John. May he rest in peace.