"In the early days I had a very black-and-white view of everything"

Cat Stevens reflects on his earlier worldview as something strictly divided, marked by clear distinctions between right and wrong, good and bad. The phrase “very black-and-white view” suggests a mindset in which complexities and nuances are overlooked or ignored. Such a perspective often comes from youth, inexperience, or a desire for certainty in a confusing world. The absence of shades of grey implies a reluctance or inability to accept ambiguity, believing that issues, people, and decisions can fit neatly into obvious categories.

Seeing things in black and white could stem from a desire to gain control over life’s unpredictability. For an artist, this mentality might have influenced creative decisions, relationships, and spiritual beliefs, creating inner tension when encountering situations that didn’t conform to these rigid divisions. With time and greater exposure to different cultures, philosophies, and challenges, Stevens’s outlook would naturally shift. As the realities of life reveal themselves through mistakes, contradictions, and unexpected connections, the simplistic worldview gives way to a greater acceptance of diversity, uncertainty, and the messy complexity of people and situations.

This kind of evolution is central to human growth. Initially, ideals and beliefs appear crystal clear, offering guidance and moral grounding. But gradually, these absolutes are tested. Realizing that not everyone, or every situation, fits neatly into preconceived notions can be unsettling but profoundly liberating. It builds empathy and understanding, helping people become less judgmental and more open-minded. For someone like Stevens, whose music and life have often explored spiritual and philosophical territories, the movement away from “black-and-white” thinking is essential for genuine inquiry and compassion. Making room for ambiguity allows for richer relationships, creative expression, and wisdom, a shift from certainty toward curiosity.