"I've known Pete for over fifty years, now. I've seen him charm the pants of a Young Republican Club."

THAT is an example of the "nasty optimism" that Springsteen was referring to!!

I'm sorry Frank, but with the deepest of respect, I still think that Springsteen's words were eloquent and fitting. After watching the performance live at the Garden and again on television, I don't think that Springsteen was creating the image of "ranting idealogue" with his choice of words, and the use of the word "bastard" was not meant to be offensive at all. Perhaps it is a generational thing, but Springsteen was speaking with great respect and admiration for everything that Seeger stands for - and his words encouraged others to use Seeger as an example on how to conduct their own lives.

I do respect your opinion and everyone is entitled to have one - but I feel it is important to be able to disagree.