Jim I don't think you make your points very readable or accessible sometimes, and I still maintain that there are more people interested than you credit. However broadly and finally and at last we are in agreement to some extent. There are numerous Folkies diminishing or not who are delving into the collections to dig out unsung versions of songs. My main carp there is that the versions unearthed have to be as good or better than the well known ones to gain popularity, and we sometimes find not so good versions sung just because they are there. That said if there is ignorance and indifference then it's time to change the perception by getting out there and singing the songs, paid or otherwise. I am finding no lack of interest as I have said before in this thread. Getting hung up on definitions is not going to help, neither is isolating the songs in a small number of specialist clubs. There are about 400 clubs and festivals in the UK and loads of song sessions, probably more than the clubs. When I'm not on a stage you'll find me in the sing around doing what I do best. More than that none of us can do. I am looking forward to going to Bryans club next year, and running into Dave the gnome in Skipton.
If I could afford it I would have been at Lewes festival this month, but I live 300 miles away. All I am saying is let the songs do the work, and if you receive indifference or hostility look to your performance or attitude. With a little explanation and a couple of jokes you can break the ice and get them on board. Not rocket science really is it?