Far From Me

Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds · The Boatman's Call [1997]

For you, dear, I was born

For you, I was raised up

For you I've lived and for you I will die

For you I am dying now

You were my mad little lover

In a world where everybody fucks everybody else over

You who are so far from me,

so far from me

Way across some cold neurotic sea

Far from me

I would talk to you of all manner of things

With a smile you would reply

Then the sun would leave your pretty face

And you'd retreat from the front of your eyes

I keep hearing that you're doing your best

I hope your heart beats happy,

In your infant breast

You are so far from me,

far from me , far from me

There is no knowledge but I know it



There's nothing to learn from that vacant voice

That sails to me across the line

From ridiculous to sublime

It's good to hear you're doing so well dear

But really can't you find somebody else that you can ring and tell

Did you ever care for me ?

Were you ever there for me ?

So far from me

You told me you'd stick by me

Through the thick and through the thin

Those were your very words

My fair-weather friend

You were my brave-hearted lover

At the first taste of trouble went running back to mother

So far from me, far from me

Suspended in your bleak and fishless sea

Far from me, far from me

Far From Me

Far From Me stands as a defining moment on Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds' 1997 album, The Boatman's Call. Marking a significant departure from the band's earlier gothic rock intensity, this recording embraces a softer, more introspective soundscape. The track exemplifies the album's shift toward melancholic balladry, characterized by sparse instrumentation and Cave's emotive vocal delivery. Released during a period of profound artistic evolution, the song reflects the band's willingness to explore vulnerability and quiet despair. It remains a staple in their discography, showcasing the group's ability to craft haunting, atmospheric music that resonates deeply with listeners. The recording captures the essence of late nineties alternative rock while maintaining the distinctive lyrical weight associated with Cave's songwriting.