Borrowed Time
.John Lennon Lyrics


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When I was younger
Living confusion and deep despair
When I was younger
Living illusion of freedom and power

When I was younger
Full of ideas and broken dreams (my friend)
When I was younger ah hah
Everything simple but not so clear

Living on borrowed time
Without a thought for tomorrow
Living on borrowed time
Without a thought for tomorrow

Now I am older
The more that I see the less that I know for sure
Now I am older
The future is brighter and now is the hour

Living on borrowed time
Without a thought for tomorrow
Living on borrowed time
Without a thought for tomorrow

Good to be older
Would not exchange a single day or a year
Good to be older
Less complications everything clear

Living on borrowed time
Without a thought for tomorrow




Living on borrowed time
Without a thought for tomorrow

Overall Meaning

John Lennon's song "Borrowed Time" is a reflection on his past and present, focused on the concept of time. The first verse talks of his youth, "Living confusion and deep despair," and "Living illusion of freedom and power." The second verse speaks of his present, "The more that I see the less that I know for sure." The song highlights how time changes our perspective and priorities. As a younger person, everything was simple yet unclear, while as an older person, clarity is gained and a brighter future awaits.


The repetition of the phrase "Living on borrowed time without a thought for tomorrow" emphasizes that life is short and tomorrow is not guaranteed. This phrase serves as a reminder that we should appreciate the present and not take it for granted. The lyrics also suggest that getting older is something to be embraced, as it brings less complication and a clearer view of life.


Overall, "Borrowed Time" is a powerful reminder to live in the moment and appreciate every day. It encourages the listener to take a step back and evaluate their life, and to take the time to appreciate and enjoy the simple things.


Line by Line Meaning

When I was younger
During my earlier days


Living confusion and deep despair
Experiencing a state of emotional turmoil and hopelessness


Living illusion of freedom and power
Believing in a false sense of liberation and authority


Full of ideas and broken dreams (my friend)
Having numerous aspirations but feeling disillusioned with failures


Everything simple but not so clear
Things appeared uncomplicated but lacked clarity


Living on borrowed time
Surviving with limited time left


Without a thought for tomorrow
Without any planning or preparation for the future


Now I am older
With age and experience


The more that I see the less that I know for sure
As I learn more, I realize my lack of certainty


The future is brighter and now is the hour
The prospects are more optimistic, and this is the right moment


Good to be older
Being mature has its advantages


Would not exchange a single day or a year
Not willing to swap a moment or a period of life for anything else


Less complications everything clear
Things are simpler and easier to comprehend


Living on borrowed time
Existing with a limited lifespan


Without a thought for tomorrow
Without considering the future




Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: JOHN LENNON, JOHN WINSTON LENNON

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Most interesting comment from YouTube:

@laodiceiasilva4770

When I was younger
Living confusion and deep dispair
When I was younger ah hah
Living illusion of freedom and power
When I was younger
Full of ideas and broken dreams (my friend)
When I was younger ah hah
Everything simple but not so clear

Living on borrowed time
Without a thought for tomorrow
Living on borrowed time
Without a thought for tomorrow

Now I am older
The more that I see the less that I know for sure
Now I am older ah hah
The future is brighter and now is the hour

Living on borrowed time
Without a thought for tomorrow
Living on borrowed time
Without a thought for tomorrow

Good to be older
Would not exchange a single day or a year
Good to be older ah hah
Less complications everything clear

Living on borrowed time
Without a thought for tomorrow
Living on borrowed time
Without a thought for tomorrow



All comments from YouTube:

@j.c7719

Yet another masterpiece from Lennon. That verse melody is something else ❤ the greatest songwriter of all time bar none.

@dawncharlonne1961

Happy Birthday John! 80 years old! Thank you for the wonderful music and wise words! Peace and Love!

@lisaparsons4124

Yes happy birthday to John Lennon

@johnlennon

"When I was younger..."

The John Lennon and Yoko Ono album 'Milk and Honey' was released #onthisday 9 Jan 1984

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WggUweuTFxg

@bellaangel2860

John had the nicest smile, love this song ❤

@graceland329

Baby John Lennon was so cute! 🥰

@carriad11

Sadly John is no longer with us but his music will live forever!

@lisaparsons4124

Yes I agree 💯 and love John Lennon

@theneweraofmusic5578

Not the same as meeting him live.

@bertenqvist7324

Stop mourning.

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