Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds

Lyrics

41 ContributorsO Children LyricsPass me that lovely little gun
My dear, my darling one
The cleaners are coming one by one
You don't even want to let them start

They are knocking now upon your door
They measure the room, they know the score
They're mopping up the butcher's floor
Of your broken little hearts

Oh-Oh-O Children
Forgive us now for what we've done
It started out as a bit of fun
Here, take these before we run away
The keys to the gulag

[Chorus]
O Children
Lift up your voice, lift up your voice
Children
Rejoice, rejoice

Come on, come on, come on, come on

Here comes Frank and poor old Jim
They're gathering round with all my friends
We're older now, the light is dim
And you are only just beginning
Oh-Oh-O Children
We have the answer to all your fears
It's short, it's simple, it's crystal clear
It's round about and it's somewhere here
Lost amongst our winnings

[Chorus]
O Children
Lift up your voice, lift up your voice
Children
Rejoice, rejoice

The cleaners have done their job on you
They're hip to it, man, they're in the groove
They've hosed you down, you're good as new
And they're lining up to inspect you
Oh-Oh-O Children
Poor old Jim's white as a ghost
He's found the answer that we lost
We're all weeping now, weeping because
There ain't nothing we can do to protect you

[Chorus]
O children
Lift up your voice, lift up your voice
Children
Rejoice, rejoice
[Outro]
Hey, little train, we are all jumping on
The train that goes to the Kingdom
We're happy, Ma, we're having fun
And the train ain't even left the station

Hey, little train, wait for me!
I once was blind, but now I see
Have you left a seat for me?
Is that such a stretch of the imagination?

Hey little train, wait for me!
I was held in chains, but now I'm free
I'm hanging in there, don't you see?
In this process of elimination

Hey little train, we are all jumping on
The train that goes to the Kingdom
We're happy, Ma, we're having fun
It's beyond my wildest expectation

Hey little train, we are all jumping on
The train that goes to the Kingdom
We're happy, Ma, we're having fun
And the train ain't even left the station

If you ever find yourself craving a hauntingly beautiful song that will tug at your heartstrings and captivate your soul, look no further than "O Children" by Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds. This gospel-influenced slow burn of a song is a gem in Nick Cave's extensive discography, often hidden in the shadows until it found its moment in the spotlight. It gained widespread recognition when it was used in a controversial scene in the film Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1, where Harry and Hermione share a tender slow dance.

About O Children

"O Children" is a meticulously crafted masterpiece that showcases Nick Cave's prowess as a songwriter and musician. Released in 2004 as a part of the album Abattoir Blues/The Lyre of Orpheus, this soul-stirring track stands out as a standout moment in the band's catalog. With its gospel influences, mesmerizing instrumentation, and melancholic lyrics, it leaves an indelible mark on all who listen.

The song starts off subtly, with gentle piano notes that immediately establish a somber and introspective atmosphere. As Cave's rich and velvety voice enters the scene, it wraps around the listener like a warm embrace, inviting them into the emotional journey that is about to unfold. The lyrics are laden with introspection and longing, tapping into universal themes of love, loss, and the transient nature of existence.

As the song progresses, it gradually builds in intensity, adding layers of instrumentation that enhance the emotional impact. The addition of gospel-influenced backing vocals elevates the song's emotional resonance, lending it an ethereal quality that is both haunting and sublime. The interplay between Cave's voice and the backing vocals creates a powerful dynamic, evoking a sense of yearning and spirituality that is truly mesmerizing.

One of the most powerful aspects of "O Children" is its ability to evoke a range of emotions in the listener. It is a song that can simultaneously make you feel a profound sense of sadness and yet fill you with a quiet hope. The thought-provoking lyrics and the raw vulnerability in Cave's delivery make it a deeply personal experience, resonating with anyone who has ever grappled with the complexities of life and love.

It is worth noting that "O Children" gained widespread recognition outside of Nick Cave's fanbase when it was featured in a pivotal scene in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1. The scene, known for its controversial nature, depicts Harry and Hermione engaging in a slow dance as they seek solace amidst the chaos and impending doom surrounding them. The haunting beauty of "O Children" serves as a poignant backdrop to this emotionally charged moment, further amplifying the scene's impact.

Indeed, the pairing of "O Children" with this particular scene in the film exemplifies the song's ability to transcend boundaries and resonate with a wider audience. Its universal themes and evocative melodies have touched the hearts of many, leaving a lasting impression that extends far beyond its initial release. It serves as a testament to Nick Cave's artistry and his ability to create music that deeply resonates with people from all walks of life.

In the realm of music, there are songs that simply exist and then there are songs that possess the power to transport you to another place entirely. "O Children" undoubtedly falls into the latter category. With its raw emotion, haunting beauty, and thought-provoking lyrics, it has earned its rightful place as a standout track in Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds' repertoire. So, whether you are a long-time fan or a newcomer to their music, allow yourself to be swept away by the mesmerizing magic of "O Children" and experience the profound impact it has to offer.

• Release Date: September 20, 2004
• Artist: Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds