Stringsinger, I entirely take your points about the reality of the content expressed in this parody. It struck me as poinient likewise. And yet, my own Irish family would tell the most terrible stories with a style that could make one weep as soon as laugh.

I don't think that 'black' and 'close to the bone' humour has ever been beyond the pale for Irish people. I've sure as hell heard 'worse' myself, and that from those who both care and know the reality of both past and present, and who can deliver a worthy punchline born of those realities too...