My Father was abused at his catholic school. It was quite common for "naughty" pupils to be called into the headmaster's office, where they would be told to pull down their pants before and fondled before a spanking was administered. When I asked him if this upset him, he responded with:
"No, not really. It was rather horrid, but it built up camaraderie amongst the boys...."
It's very difficult to ascertain how an individual will respond to sexual abuse - it, like the individuals themselves, comes in all shapes and sizes. The idea that someone should be shocked and disgusted upon experiencing abuse, or being aware of it, is, perhaps, a little too simplistic. I know my Father harbours no ill will towards his abuser, and wouldn't like to see him thrust into the dock. Morris's reactions are his own, and as personal as that. However, this shouldn't mean he can't comment on the broader problem of paedophilia in society.
And, more to the point, the Brasseye special was a satire attacking the culture of hysteria surrounding paedophilia, not paedophilia itself.
Oh, and I would like to contribute something to the Zine, but I don't think it'll be Brasseye related. The whole argument hinged upon the fact that I can't prove my "credentials" (Well, I could, but it would mean that I'd have to start doing stuff like posting up my Mother's contact number at C4 - something which, I'm sure you'll understand, I'm not prepared to do.); and because of this; and because I should really shut my mouth about what I *know* re Brasseye (someone might get into trouble. I don't want the Star "naming and shaming" anyone I care about, thankyou very much.); and because I find the whole "debate" rather irritating, I'm probably going to have to sit this one out.
Sorry. |
