Can an Atheist Author Write About Religious Themes?

Many atheist authors have explored religious themes in both fiction and non-fiction. Given that many converts to atheism often have a background in religious belief, they bring a unique perspective to these works. They understand the intricacies of religious language and tradition, which can enrich their storytelling.

Understanding and Writing About Religion

A non-believer can write about religion just as effectively, if not more so, than a believer. This is because they approach the subject without the constraints of religious dogma. They can explore the themes and characters purely through the lens of human experience and imagination, which can make for a more authentic and thought-provoking narrative.

Historical Precedents and Modern Examples

The concept of using religious themes in fantasy and fiction is not new. J.R.R. Tolkien, the renowned author of the The Lord of the Rings, and his friend C.S. Lewis, the author of the Narnia series, both employed these techniques. However, their approaches and outcomes differed significantly.

Originally, C.S. Lewis had no intention of becoming an agnostic when he wrote The Chronicles of Narnia. His friend, however, convinced him to do so. This experience has become a cautionary tale for atheist authors who wish to indulge in religious-themed works. While the concept is not inherently bad, the authors must be mindful of the implications and potential misrepresentations.

Creating a New Religion: Fantasy and Business

An atheist can certainly innovate and create a new religion as a form of fantasy. They might imagine a unique pantheon or a distinct path the way J.R.R. Tolkien did with his godly constructs in The Lord of the Rings. Alternatively, they might create a new religion as a business venture, similar to how L. Ron Hubbard founded Scientology. However, both approaches come with inherent dangers and ethical considerations.

The Perils of Creative Contamination

Some atheists, like the author of this piece, may engage in language learning and cultural immersion, such as Klingon or the Elvish languages created by Tolkien. While such pursuits can be enjoyable, they can also lead to a form of "creative contamination" when they infringe on or take from religious or cultural traditions.

For example, the final book of the Narnia series, The Last Battle, is considered by many to be poorly written and fails to maintain the high standards of religious and moral interpretation present in the earlier books. Similarly, in The Two Towers, Book Two, the repentance of Gollum is a clear allegory for religious conversion, yet it is also criticized for its overblown religious symbolism.

Warning Signs and Ethical Considerations

There are, however, clear danger signals when an atheist author starts to obsess over religious themes. This can lead to a form of spiritual contamination, where the authenticity of the work is compromised. The author may begin to adopt or perpetuate harmful religious or cultural stereotypes.

One such example is Tolkien's portrayal of orcs, which has been criticized for its racist undertones. Despite Tolkien's defense of non-racist themes, the orc character's depiction in the story has been linked to dehumanizing and degrading imagery.

Concluding Thoughts

While an atheist author can certainly write about religious themes, it is crucial to navigate these waters with care. The potential for contamination, especially when it comes to religious symbolism and stereotypes, is significant. Authors must be mindful of the ethical implications of their work and strive for authenticity and respect in their creations.

At the end of the day, the practice of religion can indeed corrupt the mind and lead to harmful actions, as has been shown historically. As authors, we must remain vigilant and critical in our approach to religious-themed works.