About The Song
"How?" is a reflective and introspective song by John Lennon, released on his 1971 album "Imagine." The track showcases Lennon's ability to blend personal vulnerability with a universal message of hope and introspection. Written during a period of personal and artistic transition, "How?" delves into themes of love, self-discovery, and the search for meaning.
Lyrically, "How?" explores the complexities of relationships, existential questions, and the challenges of navigating life's uncertainties. The lyrics reflect Lennon's introspective journey and his quest for understanding. The repeated refrain of "How can I go forward when I don't know which way I'm facing?" captures a sense of disorientation and a longing for clarity in the face of life's uncertainties.
Musically, the song features a gentle and melodic arrangement. The acoustic guitar serves as the primary instrument, creating an intimate and contemplative atmosphere. The production is understated, allowing Lennon's vocals and the emotional resonance of the lyrics to take center stage. The simplicity of the arrangement contributes to the sincerity of the song's message.
Lennon's vocal delivery in "How?" is tender and emotive, conveying a vulnerability that resonates with listeners. The song's reflective tone aligns with the broader themes of the "Imagine" album, which explores concepts of peace, love, and the human experience. The album as a whole represents a departure from the more overtly political and confrontational style of some of Lennon's previous work.
"How?" is a poignant example of Lennon's evolution as a solo artist, showcasing his willingness to lay bare his emotions and thoughts. The song's introspective nature invites listeners to join Lennon on his personal journey of self-discovery. Despite its introspection, "How?" carries a hopeful undertone, suggesting that even in the face of uncertainty, there is potential for growth and understanding.
In summary, "How?" is a beautifully introspective and contemplative song that reflects John Lennon's personal and artistic evolution during the early 1970s. Its thoughtful lyrics, coupled with a gentle musical arrangement, create a poignant expression of vulnerability and hope. The track stands as a testament to Lennon's ability to use his music as a vehicle for self-expression and introspection, inviting listeners to reflect on their own journeys of self-discovery.
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Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
How can I go forward when I don't know which way I'm facing?
How can I go forward when I don't know which way to turn?
How can I go forward into something I'm not sure of?
Oh no, oh no
How can I have feeling when I don't know if it's a feeling?
How can I feel something if I just don't know how to feel?
How can I have feelings when my feelings have always been denied?
Oh no, oh no
You know life can be long
And you got to be so strong
And the world is so tough
Sometimes I feel I've had enough
How can I give love when I don't know what it is I'm giving?
How can I give love when I just don't know how to give?
How can I give love when love is something I ain't never had?
Oh no, oh no
You know life can be long
You've got to be so strong
And the world she is tough
Sometimes I feel I've had enough
How can we go forward when we don't know which way we're facing?
How can we go forward when we don't know which way to turn?
How can we go forward into something we're not sure of?
Oh no, oh no