"It's simply a continuation of the tradition.

No it isn't"

Well, I see it in different light. So, for example, when I write a tongue-in-cheek song about my greatx4 grandfather who was 'drowned at sea' after falling in Hull Old Harbour whilst drunk, that is as relevant to me as, say, your Porcupine in a Sycamore Tree is to you. Whether it's 'folk' or not doesn't really bother me, but it is about someone who knew the harsh daily realities of life just as your navvies, railway workers and engine drivers.