Meaning of "I Know" by John Lennon

"I Know" by John Lennon is a song that explores growth, empathy, and the power of open communication. The lyrics reflect the speaker's personal journey of self-discovery and the realization of their past shortcomings. The line "I am only learning to tell the trees from wood" suggests that the speaker is gaining wisdom and insight as they navigate through life. They acknowledge their past inability to speak their mind, expressing remorse with the line "And I know and I'm sorry (yes I am), but I never could speak my mind."

As the song progresses, the speaker demonstrates a newfound understanding and empathy towards others. They state, "I put myself in your place as you did for me," indicating their growth in seeing things from another person's perspective. This growth is further exemplified by the line "I know what I was missing, but now my eyes can see." The speaker has gained a deeper understanding of love and empathy, and they express their love for the listener, highlighting the growth in their relationship.

The song also emphasizes the importance of open and honest communication. The repeated phrase "I know what's coming down, and I know where it's coming from" suggests that the speaker has developed a sense of intuition and foresight, allowing them to anticipate and understand the challenges that life brings. They recognize that things are getting better "as we share in each other's minds," suggesting that the speaker and the listener have established a strong emotional connection through open communication and empathy.

Overall, "I Know" is a song that showcases John Lennon's introspective journey towards personal growth, empathy, and the transformative power of open communication. It serves as a reminder that understanding others and expressing oneself honestly are crucial aspects of nurturing relationships and personal development.