Internet sites such as this one provide opportunities to collect versions of currently performed and remembered rhymes from throughout the world. However, it is almost impossible to verify actual rhymes and the demographical information that may be given along with those examples of rhymes.

For instance, it is quite easy for adults to pretend they are children who are posting examples of rhymes that allegedly are recited "on the playground" when in actuality the examples are the adults' compositions.

For the record, I have found several versions online of the "Down By The Banks Of The Hanky Panky" rhyme that have the line "I pledge allegiance to the flag/Michael Jackson is a fag". I have also observed children perform a version of another handclap rhyme {"Mama Mama Can't You See"} that includes the line "Michael Jackson is a fag"}.

Given the widespread publicity that has been given to allegations of Jackson's sexual improprieties, and given the fact that some children's rhymes preserve topical information, it's not suprising that these allegations would show up in children's rhymes.

There's no way to prove or disprove if the "Down in Louisianna by the hanky pank" examples posted above by GUEST Date: 23 Nov 06 - 05:48 PM and GUEST,Amanda Hamilton (age 12) -PM Date: 23 Nov 06 - 05:51 PM, are actually children's rhymes {meaning rhymes composed, recited, and possible performed [as handclaps or otherwise] by children}.

However, imo, the versions of Down By The Banks...Hanky Panky {which are basically the same} that these two particular guests have posted are very offensive. And I have considerable doubts that these "Down in Louisianna by the hanky pank" examples are authentic versions of children's rhymes.

It seems like these guests have their own agenda and also for the record, that agenda is not one that I respect.