A. N. Wilson: 'When I think about atheist friends, including my father, they seem to me like people who have no ear for music, or who have never been in love.'

When I think about atheist friends, including my father, they seem to me like people who have no ear for music, or who have never been in love.

The quote by A. N. Wilson, "When I think about atheist friends, including my father, they seem to me like people who have no ear for music, or who have never been in love," encapsulates a thought-provoking perspective on atheism and its perceived lack of connection to the beauty of music and the experience of love. At its core, Wilson's statement suggests that atheists are missing out on something fundamental and profound, akin to not being able to appreciate the power of music or the transformative nature of love.To fully comprehend the meaning and importance of this quote, we must first focus on the two aspects Wilson uses for comparison: music and love. Music is often considered a universal language that can evoke emotions, tell stories, and touch the depths of our souls. It has the power to transport us to different places and times, evoking memories or setting the stage for new experiences. Love, on the other hand, is a profound human emotion that provides a sense of connection, fulfillment, and purpose in life. It is a force that can inspire and elevate us, fueling our relationships with others and shaping our understanding of the world.By comparing atheism to lacking an ear for music or never being in love, Wilson transcends the traditional discourse around religion and god. He introduces an unexpected philosophical concept by highlighting the significance of music and love as uniquely human experiences. In doing so, he implies that atheism, in his view, robs one of the ability to fully appreciate and engage with these extraordinary facets of existence.However, it is important to consider that the connection between atheism and an inability to enjoy music or experience love is not a universally shared perspective. Many atheists, like any individuals, can possess a great love for music or have profound and enriching experiences of love in their lives. It is not any inherent lack in atheism itself that leads to what Wilson suggests, but rather the personal experiences and individual perspectives of those who identify as atheists.Nevertheless, if we venture further into Wilson's idea, we can explore the underlying notion of transcendence. Music and love both have the capacity to transcend the mundane and ordinary aspects of life, providing glimpses of something greater, something beyond ourselves. They offer opportunities for connection, joy, and profound emotional experiences that can shape our existence and give it meaning.In this sense, what Wilson might be suggesting is that atheism, by rejecting the concept of a higher power or spiritual dimension, may inherently deny the possibility of transcendent experiences like those found in music and love. However, it's important to note that atheism is not synonymous with a lack of wonder or awe. Atheists may find transcendence and meaning in other aspects of human experience, such as art, nature, or scientific discovery, seeing beauty and profound moments in the exploration of the cosmos or the intricacies of the natural world.Ultimately, Wilson's quote invites us to reflect on the diverse ways humans find meaning and connection in life. It prompts us to consider the role of music and love, along with other potential sources of transcendence, in shaping our understanding of the world. Whether or not one agrees with Wilson's suggestion that atheism prevents the appreciation of music and love, his words spark broader reflections on the depths and wonders of the human experience.