Well I don't know if you're capable of debating in a tolerant manner, doesn't seem much evidence.

rural sepia seems to have struck home.

possibly cos its bloody accurate. you seem to think folksong is prerogative of the old and the travellers, and other isolated communities.

I believe folksong is a natural function of humanity and occurs everywhere. Every community all over the world expresses itsel informally in song.

Folksong with no reference to living [eople only mythic versions of humanity is a nonsense - an absurdity.

If you spread your bet a little wider you would understand the nature of folksong better.
When Wizz Jones was asked to make a film about his life, he chose Martin Carthy to lead the question and answer section and the narration. There is immense respect between this singer of mainly traditional music and this singer of contemporary songs. Carthy has always named Big Bill Broonzy as his main influence as a guitarist.

Your angle seems to be that you are far too knowledgeable to have respect for anyone. Respect seems like an alien concept.

Finally - the reason we have no definition for our music is that it is open ended. Someone will write a whole new chapter tomorrow. And I will not be the one dismissing what another artist is trying to do. I am not so insecure.