Atheism and monasticism?

[ComradeMeow]

It's an interesting idea, admittedly, this is coming from a man who, when he learned about how J.D. Salinger lived alone on a mountain somewhere near in New Hampshire, considered it something to aspire to. Then again, I don't see a point in connecting such a goal with atheism. I think the most obvious ways to sell such a lifestyle is becoming a famous author or a mountain man like in Jeremiah Johnson. But, then again, the mountain man lifestyle seems to have largely been replaced by the survivalists who justify their lifestyle with extreme paranoia and remarkably little love for the land they live off of.

I have personally always viewed monasticism an extension of the academic life. More of a moment to internalize something so you can strengthen a desirable quality about your nature. I also want to confess I grew up watching a lot of wu xia films so Chinese cinema and its portrayal of Buddhist monasticism heavily skewed my opinions as well. 

I should also clarify that I do not wish to connect it to atheism I merely wish to address if it is beneficial to atheists. All known monasticism has religious context and I am curious if it could benefit the secular somehow and also society. Would man become wiser through internalizing himself and perhaps strengthen his character?

I always viewed it as a life where I could open hundreds of books and study the great works of Plato and one day write my own collection of philosophical literature that could progress society into something more spiritually advanced. In particular is that I want man to let go of gods and develop into a rational creature that can appreciate the world without supernal meaning. To worship nature instead of petty sky daddies and hold a love of the world instead of a hatred toward infidels.