Nick Cave Reflects on Loss of Sons

Nick Cave has revealed that the deaths of his two sons, Arthur and Jethro, have fundamentally changed his perspective on life and his music. His 15-year-old son Arthur died in a cliff accident in 2015, followed by the death of his 31-year-old son Jethro in 2022. Cave, now 66, stated that these tragedies have made him 'less precious about [his] own place in the world' and have instilled a greater bravery in his creative expression. In an interview with The Big Issue, he reflected on his song 'O Children', which addresses the inability to protect children from a troubling world, noting its continued relevance today. He expressed concern for the current state of the world and its impact on children, echoing themes he wrote about 22 years ago. Cave's experiences have led him to a deeper understanding of grief and the importance of confronting life's harsh realities.