It's easy to underestimate his erudition and intelligence, probably because of his always seemed to impaired by booze.
Decades ago I was on a train in Ireland and he was sitting at the table opposite to him. Like most on the train carriage, I recognised him but left him alone. Eventually someone walking through the carriage saw him and approached to quickly express his admiration/gratitude for his music and asked if he minded that he had a question about the lyrics of one of his songs. He seemed genuinely happy to engage in a conversation.
I listened, of course, and for the next 30 minutes or so, was treated to a whirlwind but fascinating tour of his ideas covering politics, philosophy, history as well as literature. He was extremely well-read. I wish I could remember the details. Maybe this transcript - https://thequietus.com/articles/09277-mark-e-smith-nick-cave... - captures the tone of the conversation.
He attended Holmewood House prep school and attained a scholarship to Westminster School. They are both very prestigious institutions in affluent areas. I think it surprises people to learn he had an excellent education and he came from a middle class (but probably not highly affluent) background.
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It's easy to underestimate his erudition and intelligence, probably because of his always seemed to impaired by booze.
Decades ago I was on a train in Ireland and he was sitting at the table opposite to him. Like most on the train carriage, I recognised him but left him alone. Eventually someone walking through the carriage saw him and approached to quickly express his admiration/gratitude for his music and asked if he minded that he had a question about the lyrics of one of his songs. He seemed genuinely happy to engage in a conversation.
I listened, of course, and for the next 30 minutes or so, was treated to a whirlwind but fascinating tour of his ideas covering politics, philosophy, history as well as literature. He was extremely well-read. I wish I could remember the details. Maybe this transcript - https://thequietus.com/articles/09277-mark-e-smith-nick-cave... - captures the tone of the conversation.
He attended Holmewood House prep school and attained a scholarship to Westminster School. They are both very prestigious institutions in affluent areas. I think it surprises people to learn he had an excellent education and he came from a middle class (but probably not highly affluent) background.