A love of diversity in the Madstock crowd

https://www.theguardian.com/music/2019/jun/03/a-love-of-diversity-in-the-madstock-crowd

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Tim Jonze’s otherwise informative article on Morrissey’s far-right attitude ( G2, 30 May) asserts that 1992’s Madstock contained “a significant fascist/skinhead element”. I can assure Tim that the majority of the 60,000 fans over that weekend shared Madness’s love of musical, social and ethnic diversity. Incidentally, Morrissey pulled out of the Sunday show after a bad reception the previous night, leaving us with the multiracial Ian Dury and the Blockheads followed by Madness. Great gig.Gavin AlexanderNew Malden, London

• Terry Eagleton’s review of AC Grayling’s The History of Philosophy (1 June) prompts me to suggest that readers might do better to buy The Story of Philosophy by Bryan Magee, published in 1998 and still in print. It’s a lucid and attractively written illustrated survey, much enjoyed by everyone I have given it to.Catherine PetersOxford

• While being convicted in absentia is understandable, being jailed in absentia is a difficult concept (Briton jailed in absentia for 1996 murder of film-maker in Ireland, 1 June). Brendan Behan said the IRA tried him in absentia, convicted him in absentia and they could shoot him in absentia.David BeakeBudock Water, Cornwall

• We found the nine-letter word easily (Word wheel, G2, 13 May). Corbynate – it’s a new one to us but we think it means to sit on the fence.Anne and Joe SempikBeeston, Nottinghamshire

• How about a referendum to decide whether we should have a second referendum? It would help to pass the time until October.Mary FoleyLondon

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