About a month ago I heard the single “Atlas: One” by Sleeping At Last. At the time, I remember thinking that it was one of the most beautiful songs I had ever heard. Now, fast forward a week after having the song on pause. I went painting with a friend as we often do from time to time. It is one of my new favorite things to do because it is so relaxing and allows me to get outside of my own mind for a bit. After this much needed relaxing night ended I thought about the beautiful song I heard the week before and quickly pulled it up to listen to on the way home. Again, it was just as beautiful. The song ends with the lyric “grace requires nothing of me,” and it really resonated with me. It is so true and so easy to forget.
I was really curious as to why the song is titled “Atlas: One” so I decided to do a little research on the band and found out that the singer/songwriter behind the solo project, Ryan O’Neal, started a podcast. I have listened to a couple of his podcasts and his speaking voice is every bit as soothing as his singing voice.
In all honesty, I do not think I have ever been this impressed by an artists creativity. He is working on a project that he calls “Atlas” that incorporates everything about life. “Atlas: One” is the first single in the next section of this project which dives into the Enneagram (personality types), and this song was written for individuals who identify as a type one. If you are interested in learning more about the Enneagram and what type you are O’Neal discusses it in episode 4 of the Sleeping At Last podcast here. He also breaks down the song and shares his inspiration behind the lyrics and music.
After looking into the Enneagram further, I definitely identify as a type one. Could that be why this song resonates with me so much? Maybe so.