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Observations and Comment
Intelligent opinion and thoughtful debate (October 10, 2009)
There is
something deeply satisfying when the FolkWords e-mail delivers some pithy
discussion, informed opinion, or reasoned argument.
For certain, I've had a
fair amount of unreasoned argument over the years - some of it verging on
childish, pointless abuse - with a goodly number of views from minds that make
Fort Knox look wide open. I've also been accused of using FolkWords to put
forward my own views (well with respect what do you expect?) - although you will find a fair few views from people other than me scattered around FolkWords.
Recently however, I've been exalted to receive intelligent opinion and join in
thoughtful debate. And for that good people, I thank you. I may not agree with
you - that's the beauty of discussion over conflict. We may wander off the
subject indulging in an exchange of opinions just because we enjoy the
experience. We may even strike a mutual chord (pun intended). At least it's the
chance to open our minds and see how far they can extend that reach.
A few weeks back I invited a fellow 'commentator' to wander around FolkWords to see the many
comments and observations pointing out the potential for all facets of folk
music and any number of folkies to suffer from a narrow-minded outlook. That's
one point I've enjoyed debating over the years. That, and where the heck this
thing called folk is heading - and those views are wide and varied too.
My latest exchange led us both to agree that whatever music you appreciate and
however you classify your personal preference lacking tolerance, flexibility or
breadth of view does nothing to help understanding or expression. It suffocates
music. It marginalises and contrains. Above all it creates a tribal approach.
When such approaches remain unattended and unexplored the polarisation and
tribal fragmentation that holds music in its grip continues to restrict growth
and wider appreciation. So in my view the more people that try to open the
discussion the better. Which if you're reading this, probably means I'm sharing
my views with a fully-functioning human adult, or perhaps I'm in for another
round of name-calling. No problem. Water off a duck's back. My psychological
shoulders are pretty damn wide.
As I said during the discussion, the issue that remains however is those that
rigidly adhere to a particular view or any doctrine associated with it are a).
unlikely to join this debate (or any other) or b). be receptive my views or
anyone else's for that matter.
And that's a pity.
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