I'm not a politically-charged person. I don't want to be. I don't want to talk about politics and I don't want to sing about politics, but if you're talking about environmental issues then you can't talk about one without the other.

In this quote, Oliver Sykes, the lead vocalist of the British rock band Bring Me the Horizon, expresses his reluctance to engage in politics, either in conversation or through his music. He states that he does not want to be a politically-charged person and prefers to avoid discussing or singing about politics. However, Sykes acknowledges that when it comes to environmental issues, it is impossible to separate these topics from politics. This suggests that environmental concerns are deeply intertwined with political decision-making and policies.

Sykes’ statement reflects his belief that environmental issues cannot be fully understood or addressed without considering the political forces that shape them. Issues like climate change, pollution, and resource management are often influenced by governmental policies, regulations, and the broader political climate. Therefore, even if an artist or individual prefers to stay out of politics, they are still inevitably tied to these larger discussions when addressing the environment.

The origin of this quote likely comes from Sykes’ own perspective as an artist who has occasionally addressed social and environmental themes in his music. While he may not want to focus on partisan politics, Sykes recognizes the importance of raising awareness about environmental concerns, which are often heavily influenced by political actions and decisions. This reflects the broader dilemma faced by artists and public figures who wish to speak out on important issues without becoming overly embroiled in political debates.

Ultimately, Sykes’ quote underscores the idea that environmentalism and politics are inextricably linked. Even if one does not wish to engage in political discourse, the urgency of environmental problems often forces a reckoning with the political structures and policies that either exacerbate or attempt to solve these issues. It highlights the complex relationship between personal values, art, and the wider societal forces shaping environmental outcomes.