Is this music?

“Music is the food of the soul,” they have said. But which music? Or let us rephrase the question: What music? When we listen closely to our surroundings today, are we truly speaking of music—or of a noise pollution that corrupts society and spreads everywhere? What should nourish our souls now often pollutes them. So-called songs are devoid of artistry, produced solely for commercial gain, disconnected from culture, and frequently disregard even the boundaries of decency and morality. In such an environment, the phrase “music is the food of the soul” becomes ironic: for instead of nourishing our souls, it actively poisons them.

Once, music was a mirror of our society. Our folk songs reflected our joys, sorrows, hopes, and passions. Art music taught elegance and refinement. Classical works demonstrated what patience, effort, and discipline meant. Hymns touched our hearts and reminded us of life’s purpose. When we heard a melody, it was not only our ears that trembled but our very souls.

Today, the situation is vastly different. The songs imposed by popular culture often have no connection to our lived experience. Immorality is normalized through their lyrics, and messages that steer youth toward negative behaviors are presented under the guise of entertainment. Our values are dismissed, and art has been reduced to a commercial commodity. In short, much of what now passes as music has become a noise that pollutes the soul.

This is not merely an individual problem but a clear sign of cultural decay. For music is the memory of a society. It carries its past, its values, its traditions, and its way of life. If this memory is damaged, so too is the identity of the society. Today’s youth grow up unaware of their own cultural heritage, contenting themselves with artificial songs designed to be consumed within weeks rather than listening to folk songs, art music, or classical masterpieces.

Moreover, these songs are not only aesthetically problematic but also ideologically harmful. They encourage behaviors such as irresponsibility, selfishness, the pursuit of instant pleasure, and consumerist frenzy. Thus, it is not only music that is corrupted—our society’s values are also slowly eroded.

Yet when properly used, music matures the individual, unites society, and guides the person. If music is to be the food of the soul, then that food must be pure, nourishing, and beneficial. Just as spoiled food harms the body, corrupted music harms the soul. At this point, the responsibility lies with both individuals and society as a whole.

We must question what is being presented to us. We must nourish our souls not with false melodies but with real music that comes from our roots and reminds us of who we are. Educational institutions, the media, and artists must contribute to this awakening. Our authentic music must be preserved, promoted, and made accessible in environments that inspire love for it.

In conclusion, we must reconsider the phrase “music is the food of the soul.” Are we choosing melodies that nourish and elevate our souls—or are we surrendering to a noise that silences our values? The choice rests entirely in our hands...