The discussion that seems to be beginning in the Loyalist (Ulster) Songs thread is very interesting - do we supply lyrics to songs that support known illegal/terrorist organisations? Do we deal with such things at all? I'd love to know some views from other Mudcatters.

Perosnally I feel that all folk songs have value, whether I agree with the politics behind them or not PROVIDED they are not consciously used to stir up hatred . In many cases, it's true, this was their original intention - many songs going way back were a form of propaganda (eg British Grenadiers?). But folksongs portraty a form of living history - they reflect the opinions prevailing at the time - and as such have a very important role to play. Perhaps now that there is at least some hope of peace in Northern Ireland it may be time to understand the motives that drove the participants, from their songs - and hope to God it never happens again.

Graeme