Today (October 9) would have been John Lennon’s 85th birthday, but the Beatles star only made it to 40-years-old after being assassinated by Mark David Chapman.
A talented singer and founding member of the Beatles, Lennon was a quirky character, known for his peace activism and inspirational words.
His musical contribution to the world was enormous, and he changed the course of popular music and culture. His lyrics of love, peace and togetherness remain a legacy to this day, continuing to inspire, almost 45 years after his death.
Lennon’s life may have been short, but his message lives on, with many of his words and witticisms still being quoted today. Here is a gallery of John Lennon’s life, and a selection of his most iconic quotes.
9. John Lennon on love
“If someone thinks that love and peace is a cliche that must have been left behind in the Sixties, that’s his problem. Love and peace are eternal.” | Evening Standard/Getty Images Photo: Evening Standard/Getty Images
10. John Lennon on dreams
"A dream you dream alone is only a dream. A dream you dream together is reality." | William Lovelace/Express/Getty Images Photo: William Lovelace/Express/Getty Images
11. John Lennon on peace
“We all have Hitler in us, but we also have love and peace. So why not give peace a chance for once?” | Ron Case/Keyston/Hulton Archive/Getty Images Photo: Ron Case/Keyston/Hulton Archive/Getty Images
12. John Lennon on honesty
"Being honest may not get you a lot of friends, but it'll always get you the right ones." | Keystone/Hulton Archive/Getty Images Photo: Keystone/Hulton Archive/Getty Images