I may have mentioned this before in thinly disguised other threads.

When I started going to folk clubs, nobody used books or sang to paper. Amongst other things, most clubs were of the stage and facing audience variety. OK, the singaround cum library sessions are inclusive I suppose and many people who wouldn't have even tried to get up and sing in those environments can now do so.

But you know what? When I hear a bloody good singer and / or guitarist and look round the room to see idiots flicking through their books deciding what they are singing next, I can't help feeling they have a bit of a nerve. Anyone would think the whole bloody pub is eagerly awaiting their next rendition of Wild Mountain Thyme.

No problem with people not being quite ready. It means they are here to listen to others as well as rattle out their own offerings.

Mind you, when those with books kindly compliment my playing, I do try to gently point out that it isn't some talent or other, but learning the song properly and dispensing with the props improves the rendition. If you want an audience, you owe it to them to do your best. Not the best they have heard but the best you can give.

When I do go to singarounds, and I help run a couple for that matter, I increasingly sing with my eyes shut. Mainly because staring at the reading room of a fucking library removes the will to live.