I get the impression that you are a somewhat rootless person who perhaps lacking a clearly identifiable tradition of his own has latched onto a number of different cultures and traditions and with the enthusiasm of a convert is trying to promote them, but has failed to understand them fully.

My impression too, Howard.

Conrad, as a person of Polish/Dutch origins with an interest in Irish culture and Oktoberfest drinking songs, may I suggest two experiments that you might care to try out when you have the time?

1. Stand in the middle of the O'Connell bridge in Dublin, stop everyone who passes you and tell them sincerely that they haven't a tune in their heads.

2. Stand in the middle of the Old Town Market Place in Warsaw - beautifully recreated by the Polish people after the WWII destruction - and sing a few Munich drinking songs in a loud voice.

See how long you last in either place.

Better still, go up to Newcastle and distribute free copies of the Tommy Armstrong "beuk". But please don't lecture us on the importance of folk culture in people's "lifeway", or on the impossibility of poor people having access to folk music because of the barriers placed by commercial entertainers - you just sound stupid.

And, by the way, why tout for donations towards the cost of your being online (which is what is on your website), or towards the cost of your computer? Just pay for them like we all do!