The number 9 carried a profound significance for John Lennon, weaving itself into the tapestry of his life and music in ways that seemed almost mystical.

Born on October 9th, 1940, and sharing this date of birth with his son Sean (born October 9th, 1975), John’s bond with the number went beyond mere coincidence.

This enigmatic relationship materialized in various aspects of his life, particularly in one of his finest compositions, “#9 Dream,” from the 1974 album Walls and Bridges. 

A Birthdate Connection: October 9th

John Winston Lennon was born on October 9, 1940, in Liverpool, England. This date would come to hold significant meaning in his life, a subtle thread that wove through the moments of his existence.

October 9th seemed not just a date but a harbinger of important events and connections. Fast forward to 1975, when Lennon and Yoko Ono welcomed their son Sean into the world—also on October 9th.

The shared birthdate cemented the number’s emotional and mystical significance for Lennon.

As he celebrated fatherhood on the same day he was born, John began to view the number as a symbol of continuity and cosmic connection.

The Mystical Number 9

Lennon’s fascination with the number 9 extended beyond personal milestones; it permeated his creative and intellectual realms.

He explored numerology and the metaphysical properties associated with numbers, finding a special resonance with the number 9.

In numerology, the number 9 represents completeness, universal love, and artistic expression—qualities that resonated deeply with Lennon’s philosophy and artistic pursuits.

His exploration led him to notice a pattern: significant events in his life were often linked to the number 9.

This synchronicity, whether real or perceived, gave Lennon a sense of cosmic alignment and a belief that the number held a unique power in his life.

Beatles Songs and the Number 9

Lennon’s fascination with the number 9 made its way into his work with The Beatles. One of the most notable examples is the experimental track “Revolution 9” from the White Album.

The avant-garde piece is a sound collage that features the repeated phrase "number nine," creating an eerie, repetitive motif that stands out in The Beatles' discography.

“Revolution 9” is often seen as Lennon’s deeper dive into the abstract and avant-garde, illustrating his willingness to experiment and push boundaries.

While the track’s interpretation varies, its connection to the number 9 adds another layer to Lennon’s mystical relationship with the number.

The Creation of “#9 Dream”

In 1974, during a period often referred to as his “Lost Weekend,” Lennon created one of his most ethereal and introspective songs, “#9 Dream.”

This track stands out as a beautiful melding of reality and fantasy, serving as a poignant exploration of Lennon’s inner world.

“#9 Dream” was a poignant entry in Walls and Bridges, an album reflecting Lennon’s experiences during his separation from Yoko Ono.

The song’s dreamlike quality and haunting melody make it one of his most captivating compositions.

Its chorus, featuring the abstract phrase “Ah! böwakawa poussé, poussé,” adds to the song’s surreal atmosphere, inviting listeners into Lennon’s subconscious.

The Dreamlike Revelation

Lennon once shared that the song came to him in a dream, complete with its whimsical phrase and melody.

This song represents Lennon’s creative process at its most intuitive and mystical. It’s almost as if the number 9 unlocked a portal to his subconscious, allowing him to channel a message from another realm.

Dreams have always played a significant role in artistic inspiration, acting as a bridge between the conscious and unconscious mind.

For Lennon, “#9 Dream” serves as a testament to the power of dreams in shaping artistic expression. The song’s ethereal quality captures the impermanence and beauty of dreams, making it a standout piece in his solo work.

Personal Reflections in “#9 Dream”

The lyrics of “#9 Dream” are reflective, weaving a tapestry of personal and surreal imagery. The opening lines, “So long ago / Was it in a dream? / Was it just a dream?”, set the tone for a journey through memory and imagination.

The atmospheric instrumentation, characterized by lush strings and layered vocals, creates a sense of otherworldliness.

As the song unfolds, listeners are drawn into Lennon’s introspective journey, where reality blends seamlessly with the fantastical.

The recurring presence of the number 9 in the lyrics and title reinforces its significance, reminding listeners of the mystical thread running through Lennon’s life.

The Impact of “#9 Dream”

“#9 Dream” resonated with fans and critics alike, earning a place as one of Lennon’s most beloved solo tracks. Its ethereal quality and introspective lyrics offer a glimpse into Lennon’s more vulnerable side.

The song’s success reaffirmed Lennon’s ability to create music that transcends the ordinary, inviting listeners into his unique world.

The song’s influence extended beyond its initial release, inspiring cover versions and tributes from various artists. Its timeless appeal continues to captivate new generations of fans, solidifying its place in the pantheon of classic rock.

John Lennon’s Legacy and the Number 9

The number 9’s significance in John Lennon’s life is more than a series of coincidences; it’s a symbol of his connection to the universe and the cyclical nature of existence.

From his birth to the birth of his son, Sean, and the creation of iconic songs like “#9 Dream,” the number 9 serves as a reminder of the mysteries that define human experience.

Lennon’s legacy, enriched by his fascination with the number 9, continues to inspire and intrigue.

His willingness to explore the mystical and abstract aspects of life and art paved the way for a deeper understanding of creativity.

The number 9, with all its symbolism and personal significance, remains an integral part of Lennon’s story—a story that continues to resonate with fans around the world.

The number 9 is undeniably woven into the fabric of John Lennon’s life, a thread that ties together his personal milestones and artistic achievements.

From the shared birthdate with his son Sean to the creation of the evocative “#9 Dream,” the number has served as a guiding force in Lennon’s journey.

His fascination with numerology and the mystical properties of the number 9 reflect a deeper quest for meaning and connection.

For those who admire Lennon’s work, the presence of the number 9 offers a unique lens through which to explore his life and creativity.

It serves as a reminder of the enigmatic forces that shape our experiences, urging us to look beyond the surface and embrace the mysteries that define our existence.

Through “#9 Dream” and other significant moments, John Lennon’s legacy continues to inspire and captivate, a testament to the enduring power of his music and the profound symbols that enriched his life.