He however gave no clear indication as to how artistic content would be measured. Two years ago, a song by calypsonian Sugar Aloes, which made an unflattering reference to the PM's wife, became the subject of such a controversy. But today's calypsonians have even more to worry about. Particularly during the last quarter of the 20 th century, interest groups representing a wide variety of causes have targeted not just the singers, but Carnival administrators, in situations where they felt wronged. Women's rights groups have castigated calypsonians whom they consider insensitive, religious bodies have forced changes in mas design and neighbourhood activists have successfully restricted fete promoters from making noise in certain areas.
Noise pollution is still an issue, particularly in built-up areas.
Successive Prime Ministers have complained about noise levels coming from fetes near to the official residence, even to the point of sending police to turn the music down. Later in this series, we will see that the inaugural attempt by the central government to manage Carnival might have contained some sinister motives, including another brand of censorship. But let us not race ahead of the unfolding story.