I have a question for Ferret, who started this thread: what do you mean by an "Irish re-enactor"? And, what made it sound so funny when you heard it? Now that you have read all of the words, do you still find it only "slightly Republican" and still funny? I am trying to understand the motivation behind your words.

I've written several editorials on this subject, mainly decrying the violent actions of BOTH sides. I was raised to wear orange on St. Pat's Day, but had friends who wore green & were Catholic. Still do and never pay any attention to what colour I wear now, except to make sure I have a bit o'green so as not to get pinched!

I think we should not have any censureship of songs when they are requested, although I understand the fresh wounds they can open with people like Alison who've been in the thick of it. Folk songs almost always have some sort of politics involved, so naturally discussion follows in the threads.

We do need to be respectful of one another's experiences and feelings. Rhetoric can reflect this respect; if not, I've found there are plenty on here who will serve a reprimand.

Everyone just needs to STOP. I still think if the women/mothers/sisters/grandmothers/daughters, i.e those who usually are left behind to mourn and carry on, had their way, a consensus of peace would ensue. I realise this may sound naive and there are many instances where women have been a part of the fighting. The whole situation and others like it, just makes me very sad. Such a beautiful land to be filled with so much strife, hatred and killing.

Sorry, I don't know if any of this helps or not. Wolfgang, I can accept that you were a young man when you bought that book for the lyrics you were probably excited to find, and as a young man, probably totally unaware of what your purchase might have meant in the way of support to whomever.

katlaughing