With Respect, John Lennon
(A response to the song ‘Imagine’)
Imagine there is a Heaven, a paradise above,
Where there’s no pain and heartache, only happiness and love.
Where one’s life begins again, where peace and harmony reign,
A place where there’s no evil, nor death, that will stalk or claim.
Imagine that above us, there is more than just the sky,
And a God who’ll renew this earth, answer our questions “Why?”
A hope beyond this planet, one beyond the sky above,
Where there’s a Kingdom that’s built on selflessness, not self love.
“Imagine there’s no Heaven,” you say, “it’s easy if you try.”
Well, it’s not easy for me, John, for where is the hope, should I die?
There has to be more to life than what you’re offering me —
It’s simply pie in the sky, just commercial poetry.
However, imagining there’s no Hell is a good idea,
For why would a God of love create a Hell anywhere?
Yes, why would a God of love let folk burn eternally,
For clearly only monsters would act so appallingly?
Imagine no religion; oh dear, I certainly can,
This earth would be even worse, such, flames of evil would fan.
You see, despite its abuse, religion has been the glue
Holding this world together -- at least, Christianity that’s true.
“Imagine there’s no countries,” you say; that too, I certainly can,
A New World Order where some Power gains greater control of man.
“A brotherhood of man,” you say, who’ll live in peace, not kill,
Well, I won’t hold my breath, John, for that’s a dream man can’t fulfill.
Regarding possessions, John, I notice you enjoyed them,
So, why is it that via your song, one’s possessions you condemn?
Besides, possessions have their place, they’re somewhat necessary,
It’s materialism that’s the problem, as far as I can see.
As for living for today, I’m afraid that’s the trouble,
It’s, “Eat, drink and be merry,” and why our problems double.
There’s no thought for tomorrow, nor for consequences that might be,
Hence why things have worsened in the home and society.
You’re not the only dreamer? No, and that, John, is a problem too,
For there are realities that should be faced, things one should do.
Day-dreaming is for children, it’s action we need today,
Lest our forefathers’ efforts we undo, and them betray.
Yes, I’m sure you meant well, John, but frankly, your thoughts don’t gel,
They’re just the musings of man, it’s that same old carousel.
Yes, they strike a cord of sorts, but that’s about it, I’m afraid,
For when it comes down to it, they’re flawed, thus don’t make the grade.
By Lance Landall