“We have this gift of love, but love is like a precious plant. You can’t just accept it and put it in a closet or just think it’s going to grow on its own. You have to keep watering it. You have to really care for it and nurture it.” – this is how John Lennon, one of the leading musicians of the 20th century, described the aspect of love.
Because Valentine’s Day celebrates love, grand gestures, today’s John Lennon quote shifts the focus to something deeper – effort. In the words of the founder of The Beatles, love is a gift, but also like a “precious plant” that needs constant care and attention.
What does Lennon’s quote mean?
Lennon’s quote reminds us that love is a living thing—not an object—something that doesn’t survive on autopilot.
John Lennon compares love to a “rare plant” through his analogy. Lennon thus removes the fantasy often associated with romance.
The plant is not only good for admiration – it needs watering, sunlight and regular care. It withers when neglected. Love works the same way.
The quote suggests that love is not self-saving. It requires emotional presence, patience and care. Relationships rarely collapse in a single dramatic moment—more often, they weaken gradually as focus fades and effort becomes casual.
People assume that love will “go away on its own”. But Lennon says otherwise.
According to him, love is not just a feeling – it is a responsibility. It needs to be cultivated through communication, kindness, forgiveness and time.
On the occasion of Valentine’s Day – which is celebrated every year on February 14 – Lennon’s message seems especially timely: celebration is only meaningful if it is supported by daily effort.
John Lennon’s philosophy on love
Lennon often spoke openly about love. As a founding member of The Beatles who later went on to become a solo artist, love was a recurring theme in John Lennon’s music and conversations. Songs like “All You Need Is Love” reflected his belief in love as a transformative force.
About John Lennon
Although he lived a relatively short life, John Lennon gave the world timeless music. One of the leading musicians of the 20th century, Lennon redefined pop and rock music with his band The Beatles.
In the mid-1950s, Lennon formed his first band, The Quarrymen (after attending Quarry Bank High School), which later became The Beatles with the addition of Paul McCartney and George Harrison.
Lennon was married twice – first to Cynthia Lennon and then in 1969 to Yoko Ono – with whom he remained until his death in 1980.
On December 8, 1980, John Lennon was shot and killed by a former fan who was enraged by the musician’s “more popular than Jesus” comment and his perceived “flamboyant lifestyle”.
More than four decades have passed since Lennon’s death, but his words of wisdom continue to inspire people around the world.