WTF. As a loyal fan of the Beeb, I have to call them out on this one.
Censoring the word “faggot” out of The Pogues and Kirsty McColl’s Fairy Tale of New York. Surely the very best of that dodgy genre of Christmas singles.
Response to the vote on censorship, and the “Have Your Say” comment thread is over 96% against, and over 115 pages of responses so far … all with the same message so far as can see. Censorship does have a legitimate place in a society built on freedom of speech, but this isn’t one of them.
It’s pure poetry … a scene of an old married couple at Christmas, a time of family stress, and alcohol-fueled emotions, taking stock as one year ends and another looms … throwing insults at each other only to discover how much they really are in love with each others dreams. A truly uplifting piece of work
The word “faggot” may have homophobic uses, but absolutely not in this context, the redeeming power of real love. So much more offensive language exists in other songs with misanthropic intent; it’s a travesty that Shane McGowan’s poetry should come in for this abuse.
Rectify your glaring mistake Auntie.
[Post Note : Oh wow they just did.
The power of the people. Well done Auntie Beeb.
Peter Tatchell I have a lot of respect for his brave stands on freedoms, not just gay rights, but I have to say he’s wrong on this one. Context matters.]
[Post Post Note – 2030 (!) comments on the “have your say” thread in under two days.]