Letters / Time for a change again (Up Helly Aa)
The idea that Up Helly Aa can’t change is belied by its history.
It started off life as mischief by intelligent young men. In the years before World War I it was taken over by Marxists who were often total abstainers.
Between the wars it was a bit of a rammy; after World War II a desire for split-second timing and good behaviour took over.
It is only during the past 50 years that the notion emerged that it has to be exactly the same every year.
It’s time for change again: I have no doubt that if women took a hand things would get interesting once more.
Brian Smith
Weisdale
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