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