Quote of the day by Robert Smith on happiness and not having children: 'I enjoy myself hugely. It is despite myself, really.' English music legend on living life on his own terms

Happiness is often presented as a checklist: build a career, start a family, follow a familiar path. But some people spend their lives questioning those assumptions and choosing a different route altogether. Robert Smith, the iconic frontman of The Cure, is one of them. Known for his distinctive music, unmistakable style and deeply introspective lyrics, Smith has long been candid about his views on life, existence and personal freedom. One of his most thought-provoking reflections offers a glimpse into a philosophy that has guided him for decades.

In an interview with The Guardian, Smith spoke openly about his decision not to have children. He said he had never regretted the choice and explained that his views on the subject had remained consistent throughout his life. Reflecting on his outlook, Smith said he had always struggled with the idea of bringing someone into the world when he often questioned the purpose of existence itself. He felt that arguing about the futility of life while also choosing to start a family did not sit comfortably with him.

Living life on his terms

Yet despite those deeply philosophical concerns, Smith acknowledged that he enjoys life immensely. With characteristic humour, he remarked that his happiness exists almost in spite of himself. The musician's willingness to challenge conventional expectations has been evident throughout his career. Robert Smith is best known as the co-founder, lead vocalist, guitarist and primary songwriter of the Cure, the influential post-punk band formed in 1976. His distinctive voice, atmospheric guitar work and signature use of the Fender Bass VI helped define the band's sound.


Beyond music, Smith became a cultural icon through his unmistakable appearance, including pale makeup, smudged red lipstick, dark eyeliner and wild black hair. His look played a major role in shaping the goth subculture that rose to prominence during the 1980s.

Robert Smith's musical journey

His musical journey began at an early age. Smith started taking classical guitar lessons at the age of nine from a student of renowned guitarist John Williams. While he later described his teacher as an excellent musician, he eventually felt formal lessons were taking away some of the fun. He stopped structured training and began teaching himself by ear, drawing inspiration from records owned by his older brother.

As a teenager, Smith played in several early bands with friends and family. One of the first groups included his brother Richard, sister Janet and some of Richard's friends. Later, while attending school, he performed with classmates in a band called Obelisk, an early precursor to what would eventually become the Cure.

Over time, those school groups evolved into bands known as The Group, Malice and later Easy Cure. By the late 1970s, the foundation had been laid for the Cure's emergence as one of the most influential alternative rock bands in history.

Smith also spent time as lead guitarist for Siouxsie and the Banshees and co-founded the short-lived band the Glove. In 2019, his contributions to music were recognised when he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Cure.