Nick Cave States He Is “Neither Left-Wing Nor Right-Wing”

      Nick Cave has provided further insight into his political views.

      The Australian artist has previously left fans feeling frustrated, as he often avoids labeling his political beliefs. For instance, he attended the coronation of King Charles III and has not participated in BDS campaigns.

      In a recent entry on Red Hand Files, Nick Cave chose to elaborate on his political position, stating that he no longer identifies with the terms ‘Left’ and ‘Right.’

      He expresses: “I’m not completely sure where I stand on anything these days. As the ground shifts beneath us and the world solidifies around its specific views, I feel increasingly uncertain and less confident. I do not align with either the left or the right, finding both factions, as they generally present themselves, indefensible and unrecognizable.”

      “I fundamentally consider myself a liberal-leaning, spiritual conservative with a small ‘c’, which, for me, is not a political ideology but rather a matter of temperament. I possess a devotional nature and perceive the world as broken yet beautiful, believing that it is our urgent and moral responsibility to mend it when possible and avoid causing further harm, or worse, deliberately contributing to its destruction.”

      Reflecting on his profound empathy for the less fortunate, he adds: “I believe we have a duty to assist those who are truly marginalized, oppressed, or sorrowful in a constructive and helpful manner and not to exploit their suffering for our own career advancement or personal survival. I have a deep and well-earned understanding of loss and know how fragile things can be, as well as how challenging it is to restore them. Thus, I approach the world with caution and strive to treat all its inhabitants with kindness.”

      Nick Cave also critiques what he sees as the shortcomings of the Left in today’s context. “I am fundamentally troubled by the self-serving, childish politics exhibited by some of my peers – I do not believe that silence constitutes violence, complicity, or a lack of courage, but rather that sometimes silence is the best choice when someone is uncertain, conflicted, or lacking knowledge – which describes me most of the time. I find comfort in not knowing and view this as a spiritually and creatively energizing perspective. I believe there are moments when it becomes almost a sacred responsibility to refrain from speaking.”

      In line with much of his recent work – including his collaborative book with Sean O’Hagan – the songwriter mentioned that he values discussions with people holding opposing views. “I’m not overly concerned about where others stand – I have encountered some of the most remarkable individuals across the political spectrum. In fact, I take pride and great joy in having friends with differing opinions. My life is significantly more vibrant and interesting with them around.”

      In closing, Nick Cave states: “I prioritize actions over words. I view my role as a musician, songwriter, and letter writer as one that actively nurtures the soul of the world, and I’ve come to realize that this is the stance I must take to foster genuine change.”

      “Indeed, I am now starting to comprehend where I do stand […] – I stand with the world, in its goodness and beauty. In these tempestuous, one-dimensional, combatant times, I call upon its soul, as musicians can, to its grieving and fractured essence, to its distorted meaning, to its fragile and flickering spirit. I sing to it, honor it, encourage it, and strive to enhance it – in reverence, reconciliation, and hopeful faith.”

      You can read the full letter HERE.

      Related: In Conversation – Nick Cave