Nothing compares to the hurt caused by insensitivity on a weighty issue

THE first time, it could have been a camera angle.

The second time, it could have been the longer hair; an immediate contrast with the shaven-headed sculptured face we were used to. The third time it could not have been either a camera angle or a change of haircut. Sinead O’Connor had put on weight.

The voice was unchanged, of course. But the physical change was evident. People commented on it. According to the singer, they kept telling her.