O'Children

Nick Cave's 'O'Children' is a poignant and evocative song that delves into themes of regret, redemption, and the innocence of youth amidst a backdrop of darkness. The song's narrative voice seems to address a younger generation, possibly his own children or the children of the world, acknowledging the mistakes of the past and the bleakness of the present while offering a glimmer of hope for the future.

The lyrics begin with a grim scene, suggesting a sense of impending doom with the 'cleaners' coming, which could be a metaphor for death, judgment, or a cleansing of sins. The 'lovely little gun' and the 'keys to the gulag' imply a history of violence and oppression, perhaps referencing the atrocities of the past or personal demons. Cave's use of dark imagery paints a picture of a world where innocence has been lost, and the 'broken little hearts' suggest a deep sorrow for the pain inflicted upon the younger generation.

However, the song takes a turn towards hope as Cave encourages the children to 'lift up your voice' and 'rejoice.' The repeated calls for rejoicing amidst the darkness suggest a belief in the resilience and potential for renewal in the human spirit. The latter part of the song introduces the metaphor of a 'little train' going to the 'kingdom,' which can be interpreted as a journey towards a better place, whether it be spiritual salvation, personal enlightenment, or a more just and peaceful world. The train not having left the station yet indicates that it's not too late for change, and there is still time to board this journey towards redemption. The song, thus, oscillates between acknowledging the darkness of the past and present while holding onto the hope for a brighter future, a message that resonates with many of Cave's listeners.