Context

This line is from the song "Imagine" by John Lennon, from his album Imagine (1971).

The year: 1971. Sandwiched between the horrors of the Kent State shootings and the Watergate scandal, 1971 just rolled along with its hot pants fashion craze, the grand opening of Disney World, and the release of one of John Lennon's most famous songs.

In it, he waxes poetic about living in one world united by peace, love, and harmony. But by the looks of today, it would appear that, as a species, we are evolving at glacial speeds in regards to peace, love, and harmony. It's a nice sentiment though.

Where you've heard it

Sat through a graduation ceremony recently? Then you probably heard this quote spoken by the valedictorian or sung by the high school choir.

Additional Notable References:

• Yoko is keeping the dream alive.
• John—in his own words.
• The Imagine Project song.
• Forrest Gump and John Lennon.
• A Perfect Circle did a dark take on the song.

Pretentious Factor

If you were to drop this quote at a dinner party, would you get an in-unison "awww" or would everyone roll their eyes and never invite you back? Here it is, on a scale of 1-10.

Say this and watch your grandparents tear up, your parents smile, and your friends give you a high five. Thanks for passing on the love, John.