Opinion

As we approach the upcoming local elections, I’m reminded of some powerful words from Nick Cave, which speak directly to the challenges we face during these times of election chatter. He reflects that while cynicism is destructive and easy to fall into, hope is a hard-earned, warrior emotion that requires action and resilience.

We need to ask ourselves: Are we letting cynicism dictate our conversations about the future of our community? Too often, local elections become a hotbed of negativity, focused on party affiliations and minor grievances. This is a time when we should be focusing on the big issues—housing, sustainability, and the long-term financial strain on local governments.

Let’s embrace the hopeful path. Rather than letting cynicism take over, let’s ask more meaningful questions of our candidates, engage in real dialogue about the future, and remember that each of us plays a role in shaping our community for the better.

These elections are our chance to keep the devil of cynicism down in the hole and build something better, together.

Cynicism can be seductive and easy, but it’s far from neutral—it's contagious and destructive. While it asks little of us, it can damage those around us, especially our children. I learned this the hard way, having once held the world in contempt, not realising the impact it would have. It took a profound loss to teach me the value of life and the goodness in people. That devastation made me realise the fragility of the world and the importance of hope.

Unlike cynicism, hope requires effort, yet it is essential. Every small act of love, like reading to your child or sharing something meaningful, fights against the pull of despair. These moments affirm the world’s worth and remind us it is worth protecting and believing in. Through these acts, we find that hope is not just a response—it is a powerful force for change. Nick Cave The Red Hand Files Issue #190 / April 2022 Condensed Version