Ginsberg's "Howl"

http://articles.sfgate.com/2007-10-03/news/17267083_1_interim-pacifica-foundation-broadcasters-and-free-speech-advocates-poem

Ginsberg's poem was one criticizing consumerism and conformity in the 1950's. It was deemed acceptable for children to hear in 1957. Over three decades later, radio stations are too scared to air the poem because of harsh fines that the FCC might impose on them. According to this story, for every obscenity, the station could be subjected to a $325,000, which in the current state of the radio business, could cripple the whole company.

So what does this say for free speech? It seems as though we have regressed in regards to what can be said in a public forum. This is very upsetting, especially since as citizens we should strive for progression in regards to social issues.

After reviewing the poem "Howl", I thought it was a little colorful, but nothing that should be deemed a leper in regards to public presentation. I could understand if it was just a vacuous piece, but it is actually very intelligible and forward thinking for the time. This piece should be publicly admired, not admonished.