Speaker: Discussion with Nick Cave about his artistic process, spirituality, and personal experiences, particularly around his album "Ghosting" and the death of his son, Arthur.
Creating "Ghosting"
Purpose: Imagined world for his son, Arthur, and family.
Process: No concrete reason or grand plan in making a record.
Emotional Content: Mix of pain and joy; songs have an upward trajectory.
Spirituality vs. Religion
Difference: Spirituality is amorphous, while religion requires action and rigor.
Personal Practice: Nick engages in religious activities like going to church, reading scripture, which reduces skepticism.
Struggle with Faith: Ongoing and tied to ideas of skepticism and belief.
Impact of Arthur's Death
Faith and Doubt: Strengthened through the writing of his book.
Religion as Community: Though religion can be divisive, Nick finds personal belonging in Christian practices.
The Red Hand Files
Origin: A response to personal letters from fans after Arthur's death.
Purpose: A platform for mutual learning and expression between Nick and his audience.
Content Management: Balance between serious and light topics; some questions go unanswered.
Music and Audience
Universality of Music: Believes music is fundamentally good and should be accessible to all, regardless of personal or political differences.
Controversy Example: Kanye West's anti-Semitism; Nick separates personal disappointment from musical appreciation.
Personal Growth and Grief
Transformation through Loss: Arthur’s death led to personal growth and a nuanced worldview.
Common Bond of Grief: Grief is seen as a fundamental human experience, becoming part of identity.
Happiness and Defiance
Concept of Happiness: Seen as defiant and complex; involves optimism and courage.
Personal Outlook: Nick identifies as a generally happy person.
Popularity and Legacy
Peaky Blinders Theme: Connection with new fans through "Red Right Hand".
Collaborations: Notable work with Kylie Minogue carries personal significance.
Potential for Future Projects: Open to future collaborations with past partners.
Conclusion
Insights on Life and Art: Nick's conversations reveal deep reflections on life, art, and the human condition, framed by personal tragedies and triumphs.
Key Takeaways
Artistic Process: Involves pulling threads without a grand plan.
Religion vs. Spirituality: Different in demands and personal practice.
Impact of Loss: Deeply transformative with a focus on empathy and understanding.
Music's Role: Seen as a universal good.
Personal Growth: Embraced through hardship and creativity.