Following HiLo's post, I could have mentioned Woody Guthrie, one of my absolute heroes, who used songs politically but never via rants. He made his points via stories, poetic writing and life experiences, no preaching, no bitterness. I love Dick Gaughan, but on occasion he hits you directly between the eyes with his politics. Christy has been known to do the same. My politics are their politics, and I'm not saying that their approach isn't valid, but I prefer to be given the sentiment alone and to flesh out the politics for myself, which is what Woody does. When I see a great painting, just a little background is all I need. I don't need a great explanatory screed. Art can communicate for itself, if it's good art.