The Wayside Pulpit No.2
A Word of Warning to Parents
Our bodies
and minds have been created by God to operate in certain well-defined ways. One
of these functions relates to rhythm in music. Almost all "normal" music
adheres to this pattern, simply because we have these in-built sensitivities to
what is most congenial to our well-being.
But Satan is out to destroy mankind, not so much by butchery, as in bygone
days, but by mental manipulation. And in the sphere of music, he is subtlety
personified. Take
for example the three-time beat, the "waltz mode", where
traditionally the strong beat is on the first of the three. If the strong beat
is purposely transferred to the LAST beat, trouble is in store. Igor Stravinsky
composed the finale to his Rite of Spring in such a manner. History
records that the original performance of this work resulted in a massive riot
and the destruction of the concert hall where it was heard. Much modern rock, rap, and other forms
of highly rhythmic music adopt similar techniques. It is no longer a matter of
saying, "It's just a matter of taste" when it comes to listening to
music. There are certain types of music which are literally demonic, inspired
by Satan, to create frenzy, anger, and every form of destructive behaviour.
Particularly so is the more recent form of intensive beat, almost completely
lacking any tune, which is so popular amongst "Clubbers."
Experiments with mice have
shown that those exposed to continuous music of this type develop difficulties
in learning and memory, as well as structural changes in their brain cells. The
neurons show signs of wear and tear from stress totally absent in those of the
control group. If
you have teen-age children who are getting mixed up in all this modern trend,
often because of peer pressure, then may we suggest the necessity of bringing
these facts to their notice? You may find rejection at first, due to the
enormous pressures placed on teenagers today, but it is worth persisting.
Furthermore, if you son or daughter takes your advice, remember that as with
other drugs, there will of necessity be a period of change-over. That which
became "boring" to them, (i.e. normal, ordinary music) will not
immediately become well-loved, but take heart, normality will return.
(Most of
the material has been taken from quotations from
We trust
this gentle warning will be of assistance to parents, for whom we pray, as also
for their offspring in these days of frenzy and speed. God bless you.