God

John Lennon's song 'God' is a profound statement of personal belief and the rejection of external idols or ideologies. The lyrics begin with the assertion that 'God is a concept by which we measure our pain,' suggesting that Lennon views the idea of God as a human construct, a means for people to contextualize and understand their suffering. This sets the tone for the song as an exploration of belief systems and the reliance on various figures and institutions for meaning and guidance.

As the song progresses, Lennon lists a series of entities in which he does not believe, ranging from religious figures and spiritual practices to political leaders and cultural icons, including the Beatles themselves. This litany of disbelief culminates in the affirmation of his belief in himself and his partner, Yoko Ono. This personal declaration marks a turning point in Lennon's life, symbolizing his departure from the collective identity of the Beatles and the various belief systems that society holds dear. The repetition of 'I don't believe in...' emphasizes his rejection of external authorities and the embrace of his own experience as his guide.

The song concludes with the lines 'The dream is over,' which can be interpreted as Lennon's acknowledgment that the idealistic era of the 1960s, with its dreams of peace and love, has come to an end. He acknowledges his past personas, such as the 'dreamweaver' and 'the walrus,' and asserts his rebirth as simply 'John.' The message to 'carry on' serves as an encouragement to his listeners to find their own path and reality, just as he has found his. 'God' is not just a song; it's a declaration of independence and a call to personal authenticity in a world of prescribed beliefs.