Nimrod - In response to your "but it's NOT OK to apply such distinctions to Folk" allegation.

Thats not what I'm saying AT ALL, if you read it, I'm saying that 'in my experience' people are using it, on this forum, mainly for negative purposes, and that makes me uncomfortable. Using definitions to help communications is one thing, but when thread after thread, its just to exclude certain groups/ artists, that is what has bothered me. I even said "as opposed to helping to describe/define different styles or preferences within the genre." i.e. constructive use of definitions etc. within folk.

Not even sure how you have managed to get the impression that I'm "desperate for your approval". I'm quite baffled by that to be honest. My comments were merely on the use of 'definitions' for (in my opinion) negative as opposed to positive purposes.

For the record. No, I don't believe 'folk' is another form of pop music. No I don't believe it should be made to be more like it. No, my music collection does not start 50 years ago (just in case that's what your thinking).

"People seem to be mysteriously outraged that Folk doesn't conform to their preconceptions" - that's just classic. Think about what you've written.