Yoko Ono, a name forever intertwined with John Lennon’s, has often been viewed through the lens of their iconic relationship and the tumultuous period surrounding The Beatles’ breakup. In this insightful reflection, inspired by her words, we delve into Ono’s perspective on Lennon, her life alongside him, and her enduring journey after his tragic death. This exploration seeks to understand John Lennon through Yoko Ono’s eyes, revealing the depth of their bond and the profound impact he had on her life and the world.
John Lennon’s voice, as Ono describes it, was not just unique but “the most interesting voice.” This wasn’t limited to his vocal cords; it encompassed his perspective, his songwriting, and his way of engaging with the world. Losing such a partner, as she poignantly states, was an immense negative event. Lennon was more than just a husband; he was a “strong and beautiful and protective force.” Yet, Ono finds solace in the enduring nature of his art. His “words and his music are still here,” a testament to the lasting impact of an artist. For Ono, this is Lennon’s true legacy – not just in memory, but in the continued influence of his creative output. She sees her role now, beyond her own artistic endeavors, as vital to “keep his voice going,” ensuring that Lennon’s message resonates with future generations.
The weight of public perception has been a constant companion for Yoko Ono. She acknowledges the “incredible power that was against me,” a force of negativity fueled by misconceptions and perhaps, societal biases. However, Ono reveals her resilience, stating, “I hope I was able to use it to do something good.” This perspective transforms negativity into a source of strength, a concept she illustrates with the “Dragon Lady” anecdote. By reframing the insult, she disarmed its power, demonstrating her wisdom in turning “negative energy into positive energy.” This resilience is crucial to understanding Ono’s survival amidst the storm of controversy that surrounded her relationship with Lennon, particularly the persistent myth that she was responsible for breaking up The Beatles. She directly addresses this, stating, “It was not the truth that I broke up the Beatles,” highlighting the burden of false narratives she has carried.
Ono’s reflections touch upon the abruptness of Lennon’s passing. “It was such a waste that he had to go when he was forty,” she laments, a sentiment that echoes the collective grief felt by many. His youth, his creative peak, and the future they were building together were tragically cut short. Yet, amidst this profound loss, Ono finds beauty in the everyday world, recalling Sundays in the park watching men with strollers. She connects this commonplace scene to Lennon’s pioneering spirit, noting, “They don’t know that John was the first one to do that. The very first one. No man would be caught doing that before John.” This seemingly small observation speaks volumes about Lennon’s progressive influence, subtly shifting societal norms and paving the way for greater gender equality in parenting. It’s a testament to his impact that extends beyond music and into the fabric of everyday life.
The interview touches upon deeper philosophical themes, including truth, guilt, and the prevalence of conspiracy theories surrounding Lennon’s death. Ono affirms the inherent positivity of truth: “Is truth always positive? Of course. Once the truth comes out, you know, it’s all right.” This suggests a belief in the liberating power of honesty, even when facing painful realities. She also acknowledges a “feeling of guilt because I couldn’t stop it,” revealing the personal burden she carries from the tragedy. Regarding conspiracy theories, Ono doesn’t dismiss them outright, stating, “There are conspiracy theories. I’m not saying it was definitely just a deranged person.” This nuanced perspective acknowledges the lingering questions and uncertainties surrounding Lennon’s assassination, while stopping short of endorsing any specific theory.
In her concluding thoughts, Ono offers glimpses into her personal philosophy and relationship dynamics. She values open-mindedness, stating, “I just think it’s wrong not to pursue the possibility of anything.” This aligns with her avant-garde artistic approach and her and Lennon’s shared commitment to pushing boundaries. She also touches upon the realities of living with a highly talented individual: “You can’t always be in awe of someone’s talent, living with them.” This provides a grounded perspective on their relationship, acknowledging the everyday human elements alongside the extraordinary fame and talent. Finally, Ono’s reflection on widowhood, “I didn’t think I would be a widow. Nobody thinks they are going to be a widow,” underscores the unexpected and life-altering nature of loss, a universal experience that she navigates with grace and resilience. Through her reflections, Yoko Ono offers a poignant and insightful portrait of John Lennon, their shared life, and her enduring strength in the face of both love and loss, solidifying her own legacy as a significant artist and figure in her own right.
