There's the suffering one experiences from a lived life which one uses as the material for a work of art, and then there's the "suffering" that one experiences

There's the suffering one experiences from a lived life which one uses as the material for a work of art, and then there's the "suffering" that one experiences in the process of artistic creation. I think Nick Cave leaves it open as to which one he's referring to, maybe both. But I'm understanding that you are specifically referring to the former. Perhaps you are right, but I do agree with Cave that the creation of art is a constant struggle. A perfect portrayal of this artistic struggle is depicted in Victor Erice's film Quince Tree Sun.