This dissertation examines the works of the contemporary artist Nick Cave (*1957), well known as singer/songwriter and novelist, in a perspective of cultural theology. The scientific examination and analysis of Nick Caves works, mainly songs and novels, but also essays, has just begun. This study focusses upon the diverse biblical references and theological implications as well as explications in his works and takes an intensive look at its specific features regarding it as a prominent, idiosyncratic and brilliant example of „Laientheologie“ (Harald Schroeter-Wittke).This investigation makes an attempt at proving the following double thesis:1.The artistic works of Nick Cave have their very specific kind of theology, namely „Laientheologie“.2.It is to be understood and analyzed as theology of tension and suspense.So this dissertation of Nick Caves very specific theology of tension and suspense examines the various aspects, dimensions and categories of tension, suspense and excitement concerning the theologically relevant songs and more by Nick Cave, trying to describe, interpret and analyze them, regarding their biblical and theological references in deep.The stress lies upon the examination of the lyrics, their structure and composition, their themes and issues as well as their intertextuality. But the correspondence of form and contents, music and text is also being considered. Another main subject of this study is Nick Caves first novel “And the Ass Saw the Angel”, first published in 1989.Concerning the scientific discourse a double classification is assembled: 1. In view of the discourse regarding Nick Caves artistic works in general up to now and 2. in connection to the examination of pop - cultural phenomena in the German “Praktische Theologie”. |