> encourages a developer to think of programs as an AST

can you imagine saying something like

> The fradlis language encourages your average reader to think of essays as syntax [instead of content].

and thinking it reflects well on the language................

  can you imagine saying something like

  > The fradlis language encourages your average reader
  to think of essays as syntax [instead of content].

  and thinking it reflects well on the language

A reciprocating saw[0] is a great tool to have. It can be used to manipulate drywall, cut holes in various material, and generally allow "freehand cutting."

But it is not the right tool for making measured, repeatable, cuts. It is not the right tool for making perfect right-angle cuts, such as what is needed for framing walls.

In other words, use the right tool for the job.

If a problem is not best expressed with an AST mindset, LISP might not be the right tool for that job. But this is a statement about the job, not about the tool.

0 - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reciprocating_saw

I think an alternative to paragraphs or some other organizational unit would be a more appropriate analogy.

The AST aspect of Lisps is absolutely an advantage. It obviates the need for the vast majority of syntax and enables very easy metaprogramming.