In Sue Monk Kidd's novel "The Invention of Wings," the character Mr. Vesey expresses his disdain for discussions about heaven, viewing such talk as a sign of cowardice. He believes that yearning for an afterlife detracts from the importance of the current life, implying that living in the present is what truly matters. This perspective resonates with the narrator, who finds himself aligned with Mr. Vesey's views.

The idea of dismissing dreams of an afterlife underscores the novel's emphasis on the value of one's current experiences. It advocates for a focus on the here and now, suggesting that life's meaning is found in our actions and relationships rather than in speculations about what lies beyond. This theme compels readers to reconsider their own beliefs about existence and purpose.