Just because it's folk doesn't mean that it's well written or particularly interesting. Sometimes long winded trad ballads become redundant. A little editing doesn't hurt anything and may bring the true meaning of the song more into focus. As for one-upmanship about folk knowledge, it's a ridiculous pastime. There is nothing that is scientifically useful about folk music knowledge and that it doesn't always enhance the enjoyment of a good song. Still, I agree that commentary that is ostensibly critical can be very useful. I would like to join the chorus of those who want to hear the damned offensive verse. I, among others, would like to judge its merits myself.
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