The widow of a man who inspired the world over has become a legend in her own right. At 77, Yoko Ono continues to write music and work for the Spirit Foundation, which she and husband John Lennon started. As we approach what would have been Lennon’s 70th birthday on Saturday, and the 30th anniversary of his assassination on December 8, Ono has curated a show of his poems and drawings, which will be on display in Soho to benefit Citymeals-on-Wheels.
Still full of energy for her work, Ono took a few minutes to chat with Metro about continuing the legacy of Lennon’s message of world peace … via Twitter.
In getting the exhibit together, did you unearth new drawings?
There are some things that I haven’t seen in a long time, but mostly I’m very aware of this stuff because I’m working on it all the time.
Is there anything that you decided to keep for yourself that won’t ever be seen by the public?
I haven’t come around to something like that yet. I am hands-on to select the pieces and I always select something I think is really good and worthwhile to share.
On Twitter, you answer 50 questions submitted by your followers every week. Why did you decide to do that?
It’s a very new media, but it’s very important. Through this, we can exchange ideas and communicate. I’m very into it.
What has been the result of interacting with people with Twitter?
I think it’s working in some ways. Each time, I know that people are from the family of peace in some way. I’m always trying to find an opportunity to say, “Imagine peace.” Even when I don’t say that, they know that’s what I’m thinking.
Saturday would have been John Lennon’s 70th birthday. Do you ever feel fatigued by the constant reminiscing on such a painful part of your history?
It does weigh me down — all the time. But then I think, this is worthwhile and I think I should do it. The other side of the coin is that I do enjoy it too, you know.
Would a day ever go by without thinking of him?
Well, this year, it was very hard not to.
What’s your favorite Beatles song?
I am always listening to Beatles music because the point is, it’s business as well.
There are many songs that I like, of course. The Beatles’ songs are very good songs, artistically and morally. It gives uplifting feeling to children — and encouragement. I like them all, really.
