Ghillie brogues - why the dislike and resentment..?

[EagleJCS]

well maybe I'm not the only one. I could never get them tied up. they would always came apart. The intricate detailing would also make it impossible for me to shine them up as well

The first couple of times I polish brogues (any brogued shoe, not just ghillies), I use an old toothbrush to work the polish into all the nooks and crannies. Just be sure not to leave it caked in there. Use a toothpick on the small holes if necessary.

Then it's just my polish-application rag for the broad areas and a fine brush to buff.

Touch up the broad areas when they get scuffed, and maybe use the toothbrush occasionally (one a year or less) after that.