I have an armchair interest in gardening, but I don't like to get my knees dirty. I don't have a garden.

Nick Cave’s quote expresses a curiosity about gardening without the desire to fully engage in the physical aspects of it. When he says he has an "armchair interest," he implies that he enjoys gardening in a more theoretical or intellectual way, perhaps by reading about it or watching others engage in it, but without the hands-on involvement. The phrase "I don't like to get my knees dirty" highlights his reluctance to participate in the actual, often messy work of gardening, such as planting or weeding.

The mention of not having a garden further underscores his distance from the typical gardening experience. It suggests that while he may find the idea of gardening appealing or interesting, he does not feel compelled to create or maintain a garden of his own. Instead, he engages with the concept of gardening in a more detached or casual manner, appreciating it from a distance rather than through personal, active involvement.

Cave’s quote could also be seen as a playful commentary on the contrast between intellectual interest and physical activity. While many people find joy and fulfillment in the direct engagement of gardening, Cave points out his preference for the passive enjoyment of hobbies, perhaps alluding to a broader tendency to observe rather than physically participate. The contrast between his interest and his disinterest in the messiness of gardening serves to emphasize his selective involvement in hobbies.

The origin of this quote likely reflects Cave’s personality and his approach to various pursuits in life. Known for his introspective and often darkly poetic nature, the statement may be part of his larger philosophical or humorous outlook. It’s also possible that his lifestyle and professional commitments have led him to prefer intellectual engagement over physical labor, further explaining why he might enjoy gardening without the need to get physically involved.