One parody song I sing sometimes is "Islip, Long Island" to the tune of "Kilkenny Island", which I also sing at times. The latter is a very touching song and certainly on a serious topic. It is quite tragic and moving.

I love "The Fields of Athenry". The song has a place in my heart because of a person I knew and loved. It was very special to her. One night I heard someone sing a parody to the song and it upset me immensely. Whilst I know parody exists, and am guilty of it myself at times, it brought something home to me. I did wonder if "Islip Long Island" could be offensive to some folks and has made me wonder about not singing it again.

This last week I have been pointed to a parody of "The Green Fields of France/No-Man's Land/Willy McBride" and the issue has again raised itself. That song would be on my 'tearmakers' list. It's poignancy, irony and statement reach deep.

Is it me, being over sentimental,too serious, or are there songs out there that you yourself would hate to hear a parody of/do hate to hear a parody of? Are there any you would definitely never ever do? Which song affects you on that type of level that to tamper with it would be anathema?

(And to all who do parody songs, please do not take this personal. This is not an attack on you in any way. I know that parody exists in the real world, has it's place and can be great fun. As I say, I am guilty myself until this has been raised within me).

I would love your thoughts and comments

a reflecting mp