It’s that time again folks! Christmas is around the corner and the old argument about the “homophobic” word used in the song Fairytale of New York by The Pogues. My question is, is anyone here actually offended by it? Or do you just think “Oh here we go, another thing to complain about again?” I’m interested to know because I absolutely LOVE this song, and so far, the only people I’ve seen complaining about it are Straight Under 25 Year Olds. - I’m genuinely interested! So hope nobody finds this post offensive! ❤️ Anyone else finding this?!
I have never have heard of that song in my life, must be a regional thing! “You scumbag, you maggot, you cheap lousy faggot” I don't like that word in general, then equating it with those "lesser than" terms? Not really selling me on it tbh.
Can’t believe you’ve never heard of it!! - This is what I wanted, different opinions. And I’m also wondering if you’d have grown up with this song playing each Christmas, I wonder if your opinion would be different. Thank you so much for responding!! ❤️
I'm not offended by it, but I don't like the song simply because I don't like it when songs have slurred speech or mumbled words. I dislike the tempo. Whenever I listen to Green Day's "American Idiot" I sing the word in question because it doesn't bother me and I like that song.
As Shane McGowan has himself explained those words are spoken by the characters in the song. It's the equivalent of getting upset about the countless rude words that are contained in the works of Shakespeare. And just as ridiculous. Beth
I would argue that the context is a little bit different in American Idiot, simply because it's not being used as an insult like in Fairytale of New York. The singer is essentially saying "call me that if you like, but it doesn't bother me". Though I do see your point.
That's where I stand with it too. I'm more annoyed by the fact that every year when this song plays, my dad insists on telling me that Kirsty MacColl died in a boating accident. (God Rest Her Soul). Thanks for your response!
I love that song and have loved it for years. I’m not offended by it. It seems petty to complain about that one word. The song isn’t trying to be homophobic it’s dialogue between two characters not directed to any group as a whole.
