Wow, thanks everyone for this discussion on this incessantly compelling song. What an incredibly brilliant piece of writing which captures a whole novel-esque story in a few short verses. No wonder it captivated James Joyce. This song continues to bring a smile to my face every time I think of it.

I think the reading of Biddy O’Brien being a mistress is spot on and makes everything make a lot more sense. I don’t think it conspiratorial at all - I think it’s the missing link.