For Guy Fawkes Day: Remember

November 5 is Guy Fawkes Day. John Lennon makes a joke about it at the end of his song “Remember”. As we approach the 40th anniversary of Lennon’s death (and have just passed his 80th birthday), the recording of this tune also just passed a major anniversay — it was recorded 50 years ago. Its message is timely. When the past has been crappy the thing to remember is the possibility in the PRESENT.

Remember when you were young How the hero was never hung Always got away

Remember how the man Used to leave you empty handed Always, always let you down If you ever change your mind About leaving it all behind Remember, remember today

Don’t feel sorry ‘Bout the way it’s gone Don’t you worry ‘Bout what you’ve done

Just remember When you were small How people seemed so tall Always had their way Do you remember your ma and pa Just wishing for movie stardom Always, always playing a part If you ever feel sad And the whole world is driving you mad Remember, remember today

Don’t feel sorry ‘Bout the way it’s gone Don’t you worry ‘Bout what you’ve done

No No remember, remember The fifth of November