Water off a duck's back, Richard - no more scars that I have already (and I was never very pretty)!

One thing I'd just like to get straight, though: I have the greatest respect for Jim Carroll, especially for his knowledge and love of folk music and for many of his political views. Where we appear to disagree is on the application of standards to amateur performances. We can, and have in the past, had robust and heated debates on this, which, I believe, have been conducted without personal animosity or abuse (and very little physical violence). My style of argument may be confrontational (but that's my personality) but I deeply resent being called dishonest, as my opinions on this subject have not changed all the time I have been a mudcat member. 'Provocative' I accept – that's what robust argument is about – but not 'dishonest'.

For those of you who can't handle my approach, I just say "tough s**t," you're entitled to your opinion, as am I, but, unless you're the moderator, do not try dictate how and where I can express it.