Instruments are just planks of wood, or just computers or whatever, but they help us translate the most difficult aspects of life and make the conversations we have much easier and much more universal.

In this quote, Declan McKenna reflects on the role of instruments and technology in music and their ability to help people express complex emotions and ideas. He acknowledges that instruments, whether they are planks of wood (like guitars) or computers (like synthesizers), are simply physical objects. However, he highlights how these tools become powerful when used to translate the difficult aspects of life, enabling people to communicate through music in a way that is accessible and relatable.

McKenna emphasizes that music acts as a bridge between individuals, making conversations about deep and often hard-to-express feelings much easier. Instruments and technology allow for the expression of complex emotions and experiences, which can resonate with people from different walks of life. In this sense, music becomes a universal language that can connect people across cultures, backgrounds, and experiences, making it easier for them to understand and empathize with one another.

The origin of this quote comes from Declan McKenna, a British singer-songwriter known for his thought-provoking lyrics that tackle societal issues. As an artist, McKenna often uses his music to address complex subjects, and his understanding of how instruments can help convey these messages is reflected in his quote. His music blends traditional instruments with modern technology, illustrating how both can work together to facilitate deeper emotional expression.

Ultimately, McKenna’s quote underscores the transformative power of music and technology in communication. By using instruments and digital tools, artists are able to convey emotions and ideas that might otherwise be difficult to articulate, creating a more accessible and universal form of expression that transcends barriers.