Ian Curtis Quotes, born Ian Kevin Curtis on July 15, 1956, in Stretford, England, and tragically passed away on May 18, 1980, was the lead singer, songwriter, and occasional guitarist of the British post-punk band Joy Division. Known for his haunting baritone, introspective lyrics, and intense stage presence, Curtis helped shape the band’s seminal albums, Unknown Pleasures (1979) and Closer (1980). His performances, often influenced by his epilepsy, and his poetic exploration of alienation, love, and existential despair left a profound impact on music, influencing the rise of alternative and gothic genres. Curtis died by suicide at 23, just before Joy Division’s first North American tour, and the remaining members formed New Order. These 15 quotes—sourced from his lyrics, interviews, and So This is Permanence: Joy Division Lyrics and Notebooks (2014)—reflect his insights on existence, love, music, and inner turmoil, capturing his enigmatic and introspective spirit.
15 Ian Curtis Quotes
- “Existence is… well… what does it matter? I exist on the best terms I can. The past is now part of my future. The present is well out of hand.” (So This is Permanence, 2014)
- “Love, love will tear us apart again.” (Song, “Love Will Tear Us Apart,” Single, 1980)
- “I struggle between what I know is right in my own mind, and some warped truthfulness as seen through other people’s eyes who have no heart, and can’t see the difference anyway.” (So This is Permanence, 2014)
- “When routine bites hard, and ambitions are low, and resentment rides high, but emotions won’t grow… we’re changing our ways, taking different roads.” (Song, “Love Will Tear Us Apart,” Single, 1980)
- “I used to work in a factory and I was really happy because I could daydream all day.” (So This is Permanence, 2014)
- “All my lyrics are open to interpretation by the individual and imply many different meanings, therefore their relevance is purely subjective.” (So This is Permanence, 2014)
- “Reality is only a dream, based on values and well-worn principles, whereas the dream goes on forever.” (So This is Permanence, 2014)
- “You cry out in your sleep—all my failings expose. There’s a taste in my mouth, as desperation takes hold.” (Song, “Love Will Tear Us Apart,” Single, 1980)
- “In the shadowplay, acting out your own death, knowing no more, as the assassins all grouped in four lines, dancing on the floor.” (Song, “Shadowplay,” Unknown Pleasures, 1979)
- “We play the music we want to play and we play the places we want to play.” (So This is Permanence, 2014)
- “Pictures all around, of how good a life should be, a model for the rest, that bred insecurity.” (So This is Permanence, 2014)
- “Nothing seems real anymore. Even the flames from the fire seem to beckon to me, drawing me into some great past life buried somewhere deep in my subconscious.” (So This is Permanence, 2014)
- “The things that we’ve learned are no longer enough.” (So This is Permanence, 2014)
- “I just want to carry on the way we are, I think.” (So This is Permanence, 2014)
- “Two ways to choose, which way to go, decide for me, please let me know.” (So This is Permanence, 2014)
Ian Curtis’s quotes are a haunting blend of existential reflection, emotional rawness, and poetic intensity, inspiring fans to explore the depths of their own feelings and question the world around them. Which one resonates with your soul? Drop it in the comments and keep his Joy Division legacy alive!
Emma Thompson
Hi, I'm Emma Thompson, founder of MyLittleDesire. I share relationship advice, love quotes, and thoughtful gift ideas to help you express your feelings and strengthen your bonds. Let's celebrate love together!
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