What we could learn from Kurt Cobain’s genuine thoughts

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HIS LEGACY LIVES ON Even decades since we lost him, Kurt Cobain's music continues inspire future generations in standing up against the norm (Photo from Nirvana's 'MTV Unplugged in New York')

Kurt Cobain would have been 58 today. Most of his followers tend to think about what could have been. If he were around today, would he still be the laidback rocker screaming defiance against authoritarian figures? Or would he be better off not seeing how grim the world has become? Though he’s no longer around to answer such questions, a look into his personal journal pages could show us what he might think.

INNERMOST THOUGHTS 'Journals' contains several of the grunge icon's ideas and diary entries dating as far back as the band's formation (Screengrabs from The Internet Archive)

Cobain’s writings are not for the faint of heart. In it, we find the singer’s unfiltered ideas. There are some questionable written statements that paint an unusual picture of what goes on in Cobain’s head. From the very beginning, we are told not to read through his diary once he is gone. Only to be followed by a plea to read through his writings and figure him out. It comes across as a cry for help.

CONTRADICTING THOUGHTS Cobain's 'Journal' starts with a plea for people not to read his diary once he's gone but also hopes people can read through it and figure him out

From the first few pages, we see the story of how Nirvana came to be and the harrowing journey it took to bring their vision to fruition. Not too many big labels at the time were willing to take their music. Most of their early work and performances came from their own pockets. 

Aside from song ideas and personal entries, Cobain’s journal pages show us some of the insecurities that plagued the grunge artist’s mind. He was a passionate type, always putting his whole heart and soul into making sure Nirvana could thrive. In one entry, Kurt writes to one of Nirvana’s former drummer, Dave Foster, about how sad he is that he has to fire him due to missing multiple practice sessions. Even if the letter was never sent, it shows just how much he believed in the band.

COBAIN'S COMMANDMENTS A list of what Kurt Cobain feels people should live by

Kurt Cobain was also very vocal in criticizing conservatives and critics of their music. There’s no doubt that if he were still around, he would be an outright ally for minorities. His music would gladly call out all the greedy billionaires and bigots that plague our world. Based on what he wrote in his journals, perhaps it would be better that he never got to witness how things are today. The modern horrors of the world would not do well for such a kind-hearted soul. 

Though Cobain is no longer with us, the impact of his music continues to inspire future generations. They continue to instill a sense of rebellion against norms, allowing us listeners to form our sense of identity. Nirvana is not just a nostalgic reminder of the ’90s grunge era. It’s a reminder to keep living freely, to always fight for what’s right, and to be a vocal ally of the oppressed.