"Imagine" and its Social Meaning

Paper Summary:

In this article, the writer discusses that although at first the song "Imagine" may sound like it is just a good song about peace, it actually mentions some serious issues that the world has, and has fought over since the issues were understood. The writer points out that the three main themes mentioned by Lennon in this song are religion, countries and borders, and possession. The writer maintains that Lennon does not articulate why these themes cause conflict, but notes that the conflict theory suggests that these major institutions are set up, and tuned by those in power.

From the Paper:

"At first listen this song sounds like it is just a feel good song about peace, but it actually mentions some serious issues that the world has, and has fought over since the issues were understood. The three main themes that he mentions are religion, countries and borders, and possession. It is easy to throw these ideals into the communist bin, and never think of them again, but no matter what label can be applied to them, the ideas make sense. In order to understand what Lennon meant, one has to put their judgments aside. It is these judgments that kept people thinking that the world was flat, and that the earth was the center of the universe, even years after there was proof otherwise. Is it possible that if everyone cleared their heads of all things individual there would be no more fighting? If there was nothing to fight over could there then finally be peace? This song does not ask us to take on this task, but to simply imagine the possibility."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Song Lyrics: Imagine - John Lennon Album: Imagine 1971

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