Well argued, Tchaikovsky. The merits of the real life-blood rap are as strong as any form of musical or even semi-musical performance; I think in general the only exception that can be taken to it, as with any medium, is when it actually promotes hatred. This is not a racist issue at all, it is a human issue. Venom is no more attractive in rap than it is in political speeches or football hero remarks. Doesn't matter whether it is white hatred, black hatred, or the long-standing hatred of the pale chartreuse for the Purple People Eaters. It's jes' ugly! The form, on the other hand, is awe-inspiring.

A