Borrowed Time
Yoko Ono 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

The lyrics to Yoko Ono's "Borrowed Time" present a reflection on the passing of time and the evolution of the self throughout life's journey. The opening lines describe the confusion and despair that often accompany youth. The illusion of freedom and power is shattered as we come to terms with the realities of life. As we grow older and wiser, things become clearer, and we gain a newfound appreciation for our mortality.


The repetition of the phrase "living on borrowed time" emphasizes the temporary nature of life and the importance of living in the present moment. The absence of any concern for what lies ahead is a reminder that our time is limited, and we must make the most of every day. The chorus serves as a reminder to live life to the fullest and not take anything for granted.


The closing lines of the song express a sense of gratitude for growing older and gaining clarity. Less complicated and with everything clear, the singer would not exchange a single day or year. Ultimately, "Borrowed Time" embodies the idea that the passing of time is something to be embraced, not feared.


Line by Line Meaning

When I was younger
Reflecting on the time when the singer was young


Living confusion and deep despair
Feeling lost and hopeless during youth


When I was younger
Continuing to reminisce about being young


Living illusion of freedom and power
Believing in the false idea of having complete control and liberty


When I was younger
Recalling youthful days


Full of ideas and broken dreams (my friend)
Having big dreams but facing disappointment


When I was younger ah hah
Reflecting on the past with nostalgia


Everything simple but not so clear
Things may have appeared uncomplicated but were difficult to understand


Living on borrowed time
Existing with the feeling that time is short


Without a thought for tomorrow
Not considering the future


Living on borrowed time
Continuing to exist with the feeling that time is short


Without a thought for tomorrow
Still not considering the future


Now I am older
The singer is now reflecting on the present


The more that I see the less that I know for sure
Feeling more uncertain and confused despite having more knowledge


Now I am older
Continuing to reflect on the present


The future is brighter and now is the hour
Feeling more optimistic about the future and recognizing the importance of the present moment


Living on borrowed time
Still feeling like time is limited


Without a thought for tomorrow
However, now realizing the importance of considering the future


Living on borrowed time
Continuing to feel like time is limited


Without a thought for tomorrow
Despite recognizing the need to consider the future, still living in the present


Good to be older
Feeling grateful for aging


Would not exchange a single day or a year
Having no regrets about getting older


Good to be older
Continuing to feel grateful for aging


Less complications everything clear
Finding life to be easier and more straightforward


Living on borrowed time
Despite feeling grateful for aging, still acknowledging the shortness of life


Without a thought for tomorrow
Focusing on the present and not letting the fear of future hold back


Living on borrowed time
Continuing to acknowledge the shortness of life


Without a thought for tomorrow
Living in the present moment without worrying about the future




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