I didn’t realise that I was so accomplished on the guitar until someone said to me, ‘How do you do that?’ That someone was John Lennon. He asked me to teach him my technique.

In this statement, Donovan reflects on a moment when he realized his guitar skills were exceptional through an unexpected compliment from John Lennon. The recognition came as a question from Lennon about how Donovan managed to play so well, and it led to Lennon asking him to teach his unique technique.

This quote delves deeper into the concept of self-awareness and the impact that external validation can have on one’s perception of their own abilities. It highlights how sometimes we may not fully recognize our achievements or talents until someone else points them out. Furthermore, Donovan's interaction with John Lennon underscores the value of sharing knowledge and skills, even when one might feel they are at an advanced level. This exchange illustrates that learning is a continuous process, regardless of one’s current skill set, and highlights the humility and openness needed to grow further.

Donovan, known for his folk and psychedelic rock music during the 1960s, was also a contemporary of The Beatles. His interaction with John Lennon exemplifies not only musical camaraderie but also the cross-pollination of ideas that characterized that era in London’s cultural landscape.

" I didn’t realise that I was so accomplished on the guitar until someone said to me, ‘How do you do that?’ That someone was John Lennon. He asked me to teach him my technique. " - Donovan

" I didn’t realise that I was so accomplished on the guitar until someone said to me, ‘How do you do that?’ That someone was John Lennon. He asked me to teach him my technique. "
- Donovan