Shimrod,

I think I agree with almost all that you have written.

Do we feel we have a haven away from the evil musical industry in the world of folk? Yes, I think we do, but it is on a continuum with all other music. The social context that enabled old songs to survive and evolve in 18C and 19C rural communities has gone but I can listen to the songs on my Ipod. Not the same but the songs and tunes still excite.

I think the original complaint against "The White Hare" is fair - by most definitions it is not a traditional song. What S of H get up to is up to them.

Most young people who play in self generated guitar bands learn through an oral tradtion, make no money and have fun in their own social context. I don't think the music generates the drug scene any more than folk music causes beer abuse, but then again folkies do sup a bit?