After many a bout of discussion on the same point I have reached the conclusion that most songs in themselves are not offensive. It is the intention of the singer, or the interpretation of the listener, that can cause problems. It's just like a gun on it's own does no harm but used incorrectly it can be devastating!

I don't know how to get round it really. Avoid blatant generalisations and stereotypes? Use only songs that have good tunes and clever lyrics? I dunno so I tend to avoid the situation. Guess I am a bit of a wimp!

Out of interest I am English, brought up Catholic, with a Polish father and English mother. One of my Grandfathers was a Russian orthodox priest and one was, allegedly, in the Black and Tans.

I was on holiday in Ireland and went to a couple of gigs where 'Rebel' songs were sung and stories told. I did not find them offensive at all and to be honest did not even think about it until later.

The 'later' occured when, of all things, the Listowel branch of the Chelsea supporters club came into the pub about 12 strong. Chelsea had just lost to Manchester United (Soccer for anyone who did not know!) and when one of these guys started chatting to me I felt more threatened than I had all night. I am from Manchester and although not a football fan at all I was really worried!

I need not have as it turned out - we all had a good laugh - but it just shows how different sensibilities work.

Point of the story? God only knows, but I'm sure someone will find a moral somewhere!

Good luck anyway, Jed. Remember Ricky Nelson - 'You can't please everyone so you've got to please yourself.'

Cheers

Dave the Gnome