Confession: I stabbed George Harrison

Subject: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Gern
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 10:16 AM

I confess to the hideous stabbing of George Harrison, and you should, too. We are all guilty of this crime. We idolize our musicians and celebrities, endeavor to entrap them in our phony world of glitz and glamor, and contain them in glass cages as if their confinement validates our existence. Mark David Chapman sought to establish his identity by killing John Lennon, the one person on earth who meant no harm to anyone. Now George has been stabbed, and whether or not the culprit was a disoriented "fan," the pain he created was an unfair price for George and his wife to pay for such well-intended talent and appeal. I stabbed George; I shot John, and I, along with all the other over-indulged fans, need to be stopped before we destroy all human creativity.

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Brakn
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 10:26 AM

Threads are definately getting worse!

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Peter T.
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 10:36 AM

I haven't been openly rude to anyone on this site before, but as someone who has had a love and respect for all the Beatles, through all their glories and foibles, I personally resent your remarks and think you are an idiot. yours, Peter T.

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Gern
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 10:44 AM

What a shame to see Mudcat regulars resorting to rudeness in the face of a sincere regret posted over a person I have respected. Can we exchange feelings about music and life without such intolerance? My remarks clearly indicate sympathy for this victim, and a willingness to share in the guilt of the crime. Are these the words of an 'idiot'? Harrison has been driven into a hermit's existence, by his own admission, by the all-pervasive star machine and the violent death of his best friend at the hands of a fan. If these thoughts make you uncofortable, I certainly understand. If my expressing these thoughts make you hostile, perhaps you should step out of the way and let others repsond

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: catspaw49
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 10:55 AM

Happy to......You're an idiot. Peter is quite correct. The whole idea that everyone is resposible for everything is ludicrous. Sorry about George, but other folks get stabbed, shot and killed daily and I feel for them and their families, but that I am responsible is absurd.

Spaw

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Bert
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 10:59 AM

It certainly is sad news Gern. I hope that George and his wife soon recover.

I don't really agree with you about us all being guilty. Stars deliberately seek the limelight and are aware of the risks involved. I think that the media however could help the situation a lot by refusing to print the names of the deranged criminals who attack public figures.

Bert.

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: MMario
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 11:01 AM

ON the other hand, Gern, if you wish to feel responsible, go ahead and do so. In fact, we could blame you for a great many things, such as the y2k hysteria, the idiotic double celebration of the millenium, original sin, and the death of the betelguesean tittittle avianoids.

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Skipjack
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 11:01 AM

I personally think you're both wrong, but not eejits. I am diametrically opposed to the deification and veneration of fellow musicians. When reputations grow, and musicians become out of reach, for the simple social exchanges such as sharing a pint or two, I no longer service that relationship.

This hysterical media-fest is manna to the chattering classes (that's us, too, by the way!) and has absolutely sod all to do with a bunch of muso's who churned out some smashing tunes a couple of decades back.

Hopefully this thread will die before the media circus.

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: JedMarum
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 11:02 AM

Gern - I disagree with you. I do not share blame in this tragic event. Like you, I have held George and the Beatles in high regard for their musical contribution - and for the catalyst affect they had on a changing social consciousness - but I never idolized them, I never cast them into a glass cage, and I never felt ownership over their existence. I understand that these possessive behaviours you ascribe to all of us, individually - can be attributed to a the 'mob' psyche, from some perspectives - but it cannot be applied to all collectively and certainly far from he truth in most cases.

This sad event causes pain in the hearts of all his 'fans' - and that, indeed is probably part of the would-be assailant's motivation. I understand the pain you feel for George, and hence your strong statements - but I, for one, am willing to absolve you of guilt in this matter. I suspect most of us here will feel the same way.

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: bbelle
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 11:24 AM

Gern ... you pays your money, you takes your choice. Mega Stars make millions and the nature of the beast is that they lose their anonymity. It's sad ... but no one is to blame except the person who did the deed. I was attacked last year outside my home by a man ... because I am a woman ... and did not blame all men for being men. And, if your argument is that I am not famous so it doesn't mean as much ... I agree with my compatriots above ... moonchild

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Wesley S
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 11:29 AM

Some people draw attention to themselves by attacking famous people and others draw attention to themselves by posting inflamitory threads like "Confession: I Stabbed George Harrison" In my humble opinion.

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: MTed
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 11:32 AM

Gern,

Since you've confessed this crime to us, will you turn yourself in, or should we? But don't try to pin it on us--we are a live and let live crowd--

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: harpgirl
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 11:34 AM

....look before you leap, Gern!

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Jeri
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 11:36 AM

Gern, I don't agree with taking responsibility for something I don't support and can't do anything about. If you want to look at the real root cause, it's probably capitalism.

I've known of quite a few folk musicians who could have "made it" in the pop world, and chose not to. They didn't want the glamor, the power, or the lifestyle. All they wanted was to continue to make music and earn enough money to live on. I think most of the folks in this forum don't buy into that "you have to be hugely famous to be successful" crap.

And the guy who was murdered in "your home town" last night deserves outrage too, but he wasn't famous.

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Rick Fielding
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 12:00 PM

Doggone, it seems ya can't 'fess up to anything anymore. Now Gern, if you'd only titled this "Is George Harrison Folk?", and then slipped in your little secret a few postings along, you'da been home free.

Rick

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: MTed
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 12:13 PM

George Harrison is a wonderful ukulele player, (and is very fond of George Formby) and, interestingly, most Beatles tunes(especially early ones) feel really natural, when played on the uke--(sorry, but it seemed like a little thread creep was needed here!!!)

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: katlaughing
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 12:16 PM

A better title for the thread would've definitely helped!

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: annamill
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 12:24 PM

I didn't know that the betelguesean tittittle avianoids were dead!

Gern. I'm very sorry that some other idiot stabbed George, but to take responsibility because we made George famous is idiotic. Someone up there said that when a musician gets beyond sitting and having a beer or two they would no longer service that relationship. Isn't that all that fame is? Everyone wanting to sit and have a couple of beers with you. Now make that millions of people wanting to sit and have a couple with you and...well, you can see the problems incurred. Why should I feel guilty because George and his family can live in wonderful splendor any way he chooses and can go anywhere in the world at any time and be accepted with love and admiration.

He could have been walking through Central Park and some mugger, not knowing who they stabbed, may have stabbed him.

Oh, this whole thing is idiotic!

Love, annap

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: harpgirl
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 01:32 PM

...we need another thread creep like a hole in the head...

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Mbo
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 01:48 PM

What's all this about George getting stabbed?! Why wasn't this in the news!! I love that man's music, and I am totally shocked to hear about this attack! Does anyone know anything about this? Is he OK? Did they catch the jerk who did it? I must know!! BTW "Apple Scruffs" makes a great skiffle tune!

--Mbo

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: longhair
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 02:03 PM

That's what the hell is wrong w/ the world and our country now, collective guilt, nobody is responsible for their own actions anymore. If somebody goes nutso and kills somebody it's because society did them wrong. What a bunch of BS!!! I didn't stab George Harrison or his wife. The guy that broke in his house did! Is that you Gern?? If so we need to get you locked up as soon as possible. Craziest shit I've ever heard of!! Damn!!!

To all sane people of Mudcat, I would like to apoligize for the above rant!!! longhair

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Áine
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 02:08 PM

No apology needed, longhair. And I couldn't agree with you more, my friend.

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Hasek
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 02:35 PM

It has been reported CBC that George was stabbed 4 times in the chest area but should recover. His wife was hurt over the head but did not require hospitalization.

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Lonesome EJ
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 02:47 PM

Gern makes some valid points about the cult of celebrity. In the absence of any valid religious beliefs among the masses, money becomes a sacrament, and fame a form of sainthood. I don't buy the argument that we all individually share guilt when a public figure is assassinated, but there is a degree of truth in the statement that fame reduces many individuals possessed of great talent to mere icons of fame, and as symbols they become targets of those sick individuals who would achieve their fame through the destruction of people like Lennon and Harrison.

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: katlaughing
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 02:49 PM

From the DRUDGE REPORT's links:

Beatle Harrison Stabbed By Intruder

Beatle George Harrison is in hospital after being stabbed in the chest as he grappled with a knife-wielding intruder at his mansion.

The guitarist suffered an inch deep wound and his wife Olivia was also injured as they overpowered the attacker, who was arrested by police on suspicion of attempted murder.

Their ordeal - almost 19 years after Harrison's fellow Beatle John Lennon was shot dead by an obsessive fan outside his New York apartment - began when they heard a noise at their secluded home in Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire.

They raised the alarm and confronted the intruder as police went to the scene.

Thames Valley Police said a man, understood to be aged 33 and from Liverpool, is being questioned about the incident at Friar Park, the Harrisons' home for more than 20 years.

Merseyside Police later searched an address in Huyton, Liverpool, in connection with the incident. Michael Abram is registered on the electoral roll as living at the flat.

Although there has been no official comment on the motive for the attack, police sources said they do not believe it was a simple burglary and they are looking at a more "sinister" explanation.

A hospital official who spoke to Mr Harrison said he had also ruled out burglary.

Mark Gritten, chief executive of the Royal Berkshire Hospital where the star was taken, said that although the Beatle was shocked by what had happened, he had not lost his sense of humour.

"The quote he gave me was that the man wasn't a burglar but that he certainly wasn't auditioning for the Traveling Wilburys (Harrison's band)," Mr Gritten said.

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: JedMarum
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 02:59 PM

CBS got it wrong, as Kat's quote above points out, Harrison recieved a single stab wound, did not require surgery to repair and is in good/stable condition. Check out the headlines here.

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Mbo
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 03:15 PM

Thanks folks. I'm glad they got the guy. Ha ha, good old George! I love the Traveling Wilburys! I hope George recovers to make many more Wilbury albums. Get well soon, George!

--Mbo

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Hasek
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 03:18 PM

Thanks Liam !!!!!!

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: jabjo
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 03:21 PM

Whilst the title of this thread is doubtlessly couched in unfortunate terms, it does raise some salient points.

As a huge Beatles fan, I listen, I read, I hear and I consume gossip about the band, almost 30 years after their demise.

For good or bad, I'm more interested in George Harrison's life than I am with the man or woman who lives a few doors down the street, and certainly those who live a few streets away...

I can understand those who feel agreived by the suggestion that George's stabbing was 'their' fault.

I do however think that you are generally missing 'Germs' point.

If none of us had ever bought a Betles record, George would not have been stabbed today.

Of course, this does not mean that we are personally guilty.

Jabjo

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Jeri
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 03:25 PM

I can't understand why people are so upset with Gern's post. I'm not debating, I simply don't understand. I also don't understand why, if it's simply his ideas people don't agree with, folks are calling him "idiot" and "creep." If this were another forum, I'd be tempted to say people didn't actually read what he'd written, or try to understand it, and just knee-jerked at the title and first line. (And I still don't agree with him, but find that a poor excuse for name-calling.)

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: katlaughing
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 03:27 PM

If none of us had ever bought one of their albums (BTW, I have an original 45rpm of Help!), he mostly likely wouldn't have all of the privileges that come of money and fame, also. Good ole Catch-22, that. Be careful what you ask for, right?

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Peter T.
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 03:42 PM

Jeri (glad you got home safely), you are the only person for I would dignify this nonsense by continuing to contribute to it. If you read the original post, as you suggest, you will note that I am asked (as a fan or member of the human race or some other rhetorical crap) to confess ("you should too") to stabbing George Harrison, and by more than implication to killing John Lennon. I consider that to be idiotic, rude, and insulting to thousands of people who would have done much to keep John from getting killed. Gern's reply, is if anything, more idiotic. If he or she had spent some time on planet Earth, then he or she would have noticed that started a conversation with such accusatory language -- attempting to drag everyone down into his or her ridiculous guilt trip -- is likely to get things off on the wrong foot. I am only glad that George Harrison at least has retained his sense of humour -- I lost mine with this crap some time ago. yours, Peter T.

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: InOBU
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 04:39 PM

George was stabbed? Where was I? Havent I seen the news for a few days? Wierd? Humph!? Hope he is OK.
Oh, one more thing... I didnt do it.
Neither did you Gern. It is ok to feel hopeless at times like this, but I dont even think Mr. H would blame his well meaning fans. I think he would like a card telling him you made a small donation to a charity he cares about as a get well wish.
Stay cool everyone - unless you are up here in the North East, then stay warm,
Seasons best
Larry

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Peter T.
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 04:39 PM

Sorry, lost a little grammar in my rant (a sign of intemperance) -- "for whom", and "having started".
yours, Peter T.

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 04:50 PM

Some people will do the most extraordinary things to get noticed.

At least sticking a post with a daft thread title and a slightly off kilter premise is a reasonably harmless way of saying "Look at Me", compared with stalking some famous person.

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Jeri
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 04:52 PM

Thanks for explaining, Peter. I had an initial reaction to Gern's first post of "whaddya mean 'we?'"

There are plenty of excuses people can dream up to justify evil deeds. Blame it on family, friends, co-workers, the "system," anything but one's self. If criminals believe these excuses are reason enough to commit crimes, then perhaps those who facilitate them doing so really are guilty.

I'm outta here.

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Durham Lad
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 05:18 PM

I can't agree with your sentiments Gern. That tabloid headline sure woke me up though. Is this going to start a trend?

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Bill D
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 05:23 PM

"mea culpa, mea culpa...mea ambigua culpa"

(no, I will not explicate)

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Bill D
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 05:24 PM

(though I think that should be 'culpe'

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 05:58 PM

Naah, "culpa" is what we always used to say till we got de-Latinised. Unless there is some highpowered macaronic pun that I don't understand.

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Jon Freeman
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 06:32 PM

Gern, apart from the fact that I think that your suggestion that we are all guilty is outrageous, when you say "John Lennon, the one person on earth who never meant to harm anybody" aren't you begin guilty of another absurd form of idolotry? Do you really know whether John Lennon had any more or less intention to harm anybody than me or anybody else that has ever lived on earth?

Also, I am a little confused by "... unfair price for George and his wife to pay for such well intended tallent and appeal". Are you suggesting that it would be fair for somebody less talented or with less appeal to be stabbed?

Jon

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: catspaw49
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 06:48 PM

Ya know Jon, you just keep amazing me all the time!!!

Spaw

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Helen
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 06:54 PM

I think this debate is similar to the debate about whether the paparazzi held some responsibility for Princess Diana's death. Was it the fault of journalists & photographers for chasing her because she was famous, or was it her fault for being famous (& enjoying the trappings of fame & wealth) or was it the fault of the general public for demanding more & more information about her? Or was it the fault of the media for creating that demand?

Interesting topic for debate. I think Gern's creative expression and lateral thinking should be acknowledged. He/she could have said it in a less complex way, and more boringly ordinary, but hey, this is the Mudcat, & we are complex, and we aren't boringly ordinary.

I see what you are saying, Gern, and I agree with your sentiments, but not necessarily agree with taking on personal responsibility, because I don't tap into the idolatry of famous people because it goes against my egalitarian nature.

Helen

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Mike Billo
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 07:00 PM

For a little perspective on what an insular world we "music heads" live in, this morning my father (age 84),and my step-brother ( age 54, elementary school principal), were over visiting. When I heard the news about GH on the radio I ran into the room where they were both with my daughter(age 19, college student), and oldest son(age 15 high school student).

I yelled,"George Harrison and his wife have been stabbed!!"

All four of them asked in unison,"Who's George Harrison?"

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: catspaw49
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 07:10 PM

I think that about sums it up Mike.

Spaw

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Mbo
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 07:13 PM

What's this world coming to? Maybe they'd know him if they heard one of his songs...

--Mbo

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Lonesome EJ
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 08:05 PM

I heard a brief news report that referred to how "Harrison and his wife overpowered the attacker." My mind boggles at the thought of peaceful, spiritual George overpowering anyone, let alone a knife-wielding maniac. I'd like to picture him clubbing the intruder with a sitar, or baffling him with that dry Harrisonian humor we've all become familiar with.

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: kendall
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 08:13 PM

Am I innocent because I have never bought a Beatles album? Following the previous logic, I'm as innocent as a new born. (almost choked on that one) :-)

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Áine
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 08:21 PM

And I almost choked reading it . . .

With a kiss and hug to my favorite (virgin) Yankee, Áine

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From:
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 08:49 PM

I've no desire to be in this one. Bye folks!

Art Thieme

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: lloyd61
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 08:57 PM

Gern, You are looking at the situation wrong, we are not guilty, but those of us who made the Beetles a part of our recreational life, we are victims. That knight the struck George is felt by us all.

Lets all pray for George and his wife.

Lloyd

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Rick Fielding
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 08:57 PM

Ditto Art. I'm laughing too hard!

"I shot the sherrif...but I didn't stab George Harrison".

Rick

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Jon Freeman
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 09:11 PM

This just came up in a Real News flash. Are we all guilty of this? Was fame involved? ....

"Five people are dead after a shooting rampage in Tampa, Florida. An employee of the Radisson Bay Harbor Inn is suspected of killing four of his co-workers at the hotel. Three others were wounded in the shooting. A fifth person was killed when the suspect attempted to steal a car to flee the scene, police say. The suspect was caught about a mile from the hotel."

Jon

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Barry Finn
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 09:52 PM

Being born Jewish & raised Catholic I knew as soon as I heard I was guilty of what ever it was that happened & I never even met the guy of really cared for his style that much but hey, when there's a car stolen across town I just sit there waiting for the cops who know I had something to do with. Hell I'm still waiting to find out what they're going to do to me when they realize I was connected with the loss of the dinosaurs. Thanks Gern, I was hoping to add to the weight that the world has already dumped on me I just can't get enough of it. Barry, who just can't beat a good guilt trip with a stick.

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: kendall
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 09:59 PM

have you also noticed that everytime someones travelers checks are missing, Karl Malden is around?

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Barry Finn
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 10:03 PM

Oh no Kendall, you guessed it, he's still after me, "no where to run, no where to hide". What am I ever gonna do?. Barry

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Dave (the ancient mariner)
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 10:30 PM

Speaking as someone who has dedicated his life to saving lives; here's A song for George Harrison.

To the tune of "My Bonny Lies Over The Ocean"

If (insert the name of the Asshole who stabbed george) fell into the ocean, If (Ditto) fell into the sea, If (**) fell into the ocean, He'd get sod all lifebelt from me, Swim Back oh swim back, oh swim back you bastard, to me to me, Swim back, swim back, oh swim back you bastard to me.

Get well soon George, Yours, Aye. Dave

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: ddw
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 10:36 PM

This gets my vote as the most ridiculous thread of the year. If I can offer a totally detached view — never having been able to stand the Beatles and not really giving a happy damn about John Lennon or George Harrison as musicians — I think we can all feel bad for other humans who get hurt or killed, but I'm certainly not going to take any guilt for it. If it's part of some predestined plan (I was raised around a lot of Presbyterians), my only beef is that it didn't happen before the Beatles messed up a lot of great old rock'n'roll tunes and then sold all that namby-pamby, gutless crap they wrote to a whole generation who didn't know any better.

Guilt?

Don't get talkin', I'll tell everything I know. — Sonny Boy Williamson

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: DonMeixner
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 10:53 PM

Here is my .02. gern has made a really brainless comment. I think its rediculous to say "I am responsible for the acts of another person who I don't know never did know and would probably never meet". I'd never supoport this line of thinking. I'd never shoulder anothers responsibility for heinous crime and anyone who tells me I must had better be a better scrapper then i am by God.

Now someone explain how this is any different than affirmative action? Which I also don't support.

Don

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: catspaw49
Date: 30 Dec 99 - 11:53 PM

Which is why AA ain't gettin' it.....but we like bandaids I guess. Just dumb.

Do you remember the old George Carlin routine about inserting fuck for kill? It was going through my head as I watched the tragic Tampa coverage.....The "postal" syndrome is really getting nuts.

Sorry, I'm warped.

Spaw

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: DonMeixner
Date: 31 Dec 99 - 12:06 AM

"I'm a gonna fuck ya, Sheriff, an I'm a gonna fuck ya slow"

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Rick Fielding
Date: 31 Dec 99 - 12:18 AM

Gosh ddw, I'm glad your statement was "detached". If you were more involved you might have blown 'em all away by your lonesome! (you know I'm kidding, don't you?)

Hmmmm, the year's most ridiculous thread eh? This might be in the top 30, but boy, can I think of some! Wouldn't work though to start a thread on "Most ridiculous Thread". Someone else would start one on "Best thread of the Year" and many of the same entries would be on both lists! Different strokes.

Rick

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: catspaw49
Date: 31 Dec 99 - 12:26 AM

Go ahead Rick....start a BIG mess..............go ahead........LMAO

Spaw

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Rick Fielding
Date: 31 Dec 99 - 12:37 AM

Catspaw, I know this isn't the time or the place...but I'm in a giddy mood tonight, so here goes: Thanks for the laughs, (the good ones I mean..not the crap when your medication goes screwy) thanks for some wonderfully insightful posts, and it was great meeting you in person. Long may you live.

If this is too much thread creep (or if I'm being so sucky you want to throw up)..then stab me, the way you all did George. Hee, Hee.

Rick

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Lonesome EJ
Date: 31 Dec 99 - 12:44 AM

No,stabbing's too good for him! Let's get him stoned and then push him in the pool, like we did Brian Jones!

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: catspaw49
Date: 31 Dec 99 - 12:48 AM

You still on meds for that cold or is the fever running high? Whatever it is....let me return the sentiment/thought to you. You've added dimension to my life that I had been missing....no, not the 4th dimension, I already had that.

Spaw

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Chet W.
Date: 31 Dec 99 - 01:08 AM

This is exactly the same shit stupid idea that my former students in juvenile prison had, along with the more deranged of their social workers, that when they shoot or rape or hurt somebody, the whole world may be to blame, but certainly not them. Grow up for godsakes. People were being nice to call you an idiot.

Spritually aligned with Catspaw, Chet

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: kendall
Date: 31 Dec 99 - 08:36 AM

I really dont think he is an idiot..sounds like he was overwrought and needed to vent. We are a compassionate bunch, what say we cut him some slack?

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Chet W.
Date: 31 Dec 99 - 08:50 AM

You're right, k, but when I hear this kind of thing it reminds me of my students, and in their case it generally ends up costing them their lives. I over-reacted verbally, but I still mean what I said about the stupidity of the idea, but not the man or woman.

Chet

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Terry Allan Hall
Date: 31 Dec 99 - 09:31 AM

I agree we should cut Gern a little slack, but at the same time I, nor anyone else I personally know, caused GH any harm.

There is an ever-increasing tendency to blame the world's problems on everyone except the "fuck-ups" who cause the afore-mentioned problem. Wanna blame someone? Blame the perpetrator...and no-one else. Certainly not GH for being reasonably successful.

Just my $.02 worth.

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: wildlone
Date: 31 Dec 99 - 11:04 AM

Reading about this in todays papers,and having lived quite close to Georges place at Henley it shows that it does'nt matter how much security you have got [George had lots]if some nut intent on being famous decides to do somthing he is likely to manage it.
davehappytobeanonentity

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Art Thieme
Date: 31 Dec 99 - 11:30 AM

Barry,

As a secular Jew/Heathen married to a Jehovah's Witness I fully understand.

Art
(Former pastor of Our Lady Of Pepetual Guilt church---now retired and laughing at everything.)

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: mmcconeghy
Date: 31 Dec 99 - 12:45 PM

get a grip.

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: bseed(charleskratz)
Date: 31 Dec 99 - 02:39 PM

Now if you'd all let me off the hook for eating that apple...

--seed

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Áine
Date: 31 Dec 99 - 03:12 PM

No problem, Seed -- as long as you forgive me about gettin' involved with that long slimey fella in the tree -- even though I do prefer your spare rib(s)!!!

-- Áine

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Chet W.
Date: 31 Dec 99 - 04:05 PM

Such metaphors! I love it.

As everybody looks for somebody to blame, the idea of collective, even universal guilt is certainly attractive. But it is a very, very bad path to start down. I generally love my students, but the idea of personal responsibility is as foreign to them as the moons of Neptune. "Victim of society" is a phrase often used by many adult caregivers. And of course there's some truth to it, but it is overwhelmingly overshadowed by the decision that one person makes at one point in time, and the consequences that come afterward. If the idea of personal responsibility does not come back into style, it will be time to find a place to live with no address.

C

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Tenda Loyne/PRF
Date: 01 Jan 00 - 12:45 PM

This incident hits home because I was caught up in the orginal Beatlemania in '63 and though I was too young to go to concerts, I was old enough to idolize this man and his companions. I feel the same way about the attack on Harrison as I felt about the attack on JKF all those years ago (no pun intended). Why would anyone want to harm him? This is George Harrison here! A man who never hurt anyone and has contributed so much to music. To me, he is still the 'Quiet Beatle' as he was called back then, and although Beatlemania is a thing of the past, I still hold this man in high regard. To suggest that I had anything to do with the attack on him or Lennon is just as absurd as if it were suggested that I contributed as a 10year old to the attack on Kennedy also. If anyone wants to feel responsible for it, feel free, but don't suggest that I would share in that. I would have willingly put myself between him and the knife if I could have.

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: lajka
Date: 01 Jan 00 - 01:14 PM

Does th name Sid Vicious ring a bell?? I killed his Nancy.

Whit love from Sweden.

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Margo
Date: 01 Jan 00 - 02:13 PM

(Haven't read all the posts) I refuse to be whitewashed with the brush of responsibility for the actions of madmen!! I am in no way responsible. I agree about the danger of idolitry, though. Not healthy for the adorer or the adored. But that is one thing I like about the people here at the mudcat. Here I am conversing with folks who are great recording "stars", yet we are person to person, without the relationship of adored and adorer. It is, rather, a mutual respect. No, I am not responsible for stabbing ol' George.

Margo

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Margo
Date: 01 Jan 00 - 02:35 PM

Just read all the Posts. BARRY, YOU'RE HILARIOUS!!! Someone once said to me that they'd swear I was Catholic because of how much guilt I carried around. I said, no, just Jewish!!! Hahahahahaha Love you, Margo

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: kendall
Date: 01 Jan 00 - 02:53 PM

what "stars" are you conversing with?

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 01 Jan 00 - 03:12 PM

I get it.

The man who did this was unhinged. He was loose in the community because of the "care in the community" policy and lack of mental health funds and because no-one has corrected a lacuna in law which prevents schizophrenics being detained for treatment or prevention.

All 3 things can be squarely blamed on Margaret Thatcher.

Gern, you have just confessed to being Margaret Thatcher. If so, you are guilty of so much more as well.

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Margo
Date: 01 Jan 00 - 09:17 PM

I'll never tell, Kendall, lest heads swell..... But really, I just mean recorded and well known in the folk community, not superstars.

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Sourdough
Date: 01 Jan 00 - 10:32 PM

I've been really surprised by the intensity of the reaction to Gern's post. Sure, I don't agree with it. So? There are things posted in other threads I don't agree with, things many of us don't agree with. However, this particular post seems to have touched a nerve and people have been prodded into responding. Some are changing the topic, introducing straw men to argue against, to make points, valid as they may be, about things Gern didn't really say. What I find a little disapponting is that some of the people being the harshest judges are normally understanding of points of view that are different from their own hard-won opinions. For some reason, this idea of social guilt has struck more sparks of hostility than any threads I have ever followed before.

Reasonable people have held what seem to me to be generally similar opinions. The idea comes up whenever a celebrity is assassinated. Something similar came up when civil rights activists began talking about US society as being oppressive of minorities. There are also people who see our society as a whole benefitting from the exploitation of other countries. Gern expressed his/her idea crudely but I'll bet he was surprised at what his mea culpable message sparked. I know, I have been.

Sourdough

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: sophocleese
Date: 01 Jan 00 - 10:57 PM

Me too Sourdough. Thanks for saying it clearly for me.

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: MandolinPaul
Date: 02 Jan 00 - 10:22 AM

How come nobody ever stabs David Lee Roth?

Paul.

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: JedMarum
Date: 02 Jan 00 - 11:30 AM

LOL@Paul. I agree, why not?

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Margo
Date: 02 Jan 00 - 11:47 AM

Sourdough, I don't think it is surprising to see those reactions. It's like being falsely accused. There is hardly anything more hurtful or alarming to a person to be accused of something they haven't done.

Now, as to the tone of some of the posts: I guess some people find it difficult to control "outbursts". What I mean is that I frequently feel strongly about something, but try hard to edit and reread my posts before submitting to make sure I am being succinct without unnecessary rudeness (name calling) or anything else that may detract from the post. I think it is easy enough to express disagreement or even outrage without cussing or namecalling.

But when I see people do that inposts, I can see the emotion and look beyond it. That's just the way people are, so why get upset? Then there are some posts that are so rude, that I have responded with reprimand. (Gargoyle Hunter)

The most surprising thing to me is that anyone would be surprised at people's reaction to this thread!!

Margo :o)

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: sophocleese
Date: 02 Jan 00 - 02:21 PM

Margo. I think what surprised me was the tone in which those reactions were expressed. Name-calling entered the picture pretty quickly. Sourdough was pointing that fact out. I tend to read through the rudeness also, but it wouldn't surprise me if Gern didn't write anything more, he certainly got jumped all over.

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Margo
Date: 02 Jan 00 - 03:10 PM

Yeah, Soph. You are right about that. I remember once being jumped upon for a thread, and I was pretty hurt. I was going to quit mudcatting when apologies were offered. So Gern, I dare not apologise for anyone else, but I do hope you'll stay and post again. Margo

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: kendall
Date: 02 Jan 00 - 03:31 PM

oxymoron = folk star

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Ringer
Date: 03 Jan 00 - 12:31 PM

Re Richard Bridge's posting, 01-Jan-00 - 03:12 PM:
I'm no authority on UK law (and I know RB's tongue was, at least partially, in his cheek), but

(a) isn't this "lacuna in law which prevents schizophrenics being detained for treatment or prevention" simply JUSTICE? That is, we don't lock up a man because of what he is, only for what he does and

(b) isn't there a process called sectioning which does permit a schizophrenic to be locked up before he does something?

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Jimmy
Date: 04 Jan 00 - 01:30 AM

As a Glasgow man, this entire convoluted and confusing thread and the intuative reasoning of Richard Bridge has convinced me that Margaret Thatcher is definitely the sole perpetrator of this and a thousand other crimes against humanity. The death penalty in Britain should be temporarily repealed, off with the old bag, and then the ban can be reinstated. Either that or break into her house and stab her!

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Rt Revd Sir jOhn from Hull
Date: 17 Sep 01 - 11:23 PM

I have read a lot of old threads, but surely this must be the weirdest of the lot?

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Lonesome EJ
Date: 18 Sep 01 - 01:36 AM

There are no longer "dancers," the possessed. The cleavage of men into actor and spectators is the central fact of our time. We are obsessed with heroes who live for us and whom we punish. If all the radios and televisions were deprived of their sources of power, all books and paintings burned tomorrow, all shows and cinemas closed, all the arts of vicarious existence...

We are content with the "given" in sensation's quest. We have been metamorphosized from a mad body dancing on hillsides to a pair of eyes staring in the dark.

-JWM 1968

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: GUEST,Squee17
Date: 23 Feb 05 - 01:11 AM

We all idolize our heroes, the people who move us. I know what it is to hate the people you love because you are jelous or what not. But murder is something I may never understand. Thank you all!
"R.I.P George"

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: GUEST,Sidewinder
Date: 24 Feb 05 - 02:21 AM

We are at a place where insanity rules. I only hope George is tending his garden in the sky and singing harmony with John and happy and contented and fulfilled with his higher existence. Because things really are screwed up here.I loved and respected George and the rest of them and cannot comprehend how anyone can resurrect such a nonsensical thread. I reitterate my original point Insanity Rules!

Regards.

Sidewinder.

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Paco Rabanne
Date: 24 Feb 05 - 06:53 AM

I shot JR.

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 24 Feb 05 - 08:32 AM

It wasn't me I'd gone fishing.

eric

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: GUEST,Sidewinder.
Date: 24 Feb 05 - 10:11 AM

My Sweet Lord!

Regards.

Sidewinder.

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Cool Beans
Date: 24 Feb 05 - 01:14 PM

I deeedn't do eet. That's NOT my kniiife...

Peter Lorre

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: Little Hawk
Date: 24 Feb 05 - 03:26 PM

I confess to having given the finger to Neil Diamond once...

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: gnu
Date: 24 Feb 05 - 04:51 PM

Once?

Subject: RE: Confession: I stabbed George Harrison
From: gnu
Date: 24 Feb 05 - 04:54 PM

I suppose that was rather crass. He is a great artist. It's just that when the radio plays someone constantly, the artist tends to grate on you. I think what's happened with me with ND. That and his... nevermind. Not polite.