This Xmas I’ll be 52. Been a hard year that’s seen my income drop considerably as old clients (work as a freelance copy-editor, indexer and proof-reader) either go bust or cut costs by not using freelancers anymore. My few remaining clients insist on paying 2004 rates—and they usually pay late. I’ve tried applying for regular jobs: so far, 173 applications without a response. I can’t (and don’t) claim benefit coz I own a house, which is classed as an asset. Next week I have to go to the bank and explain why there’s no money going into my account, and why I can’t pay my mortgage and bills. Should be fun. Meanwhile, I wrote this song for those already on the streets …

Lyrics:

gonna be homeless this christmas
like you even care
gonna be homeless this christmas
better say a prayer
*
so jingle jingle
let your toes tingle
as you stuff your face with pringles
and record your latest single
*
gonna be homeless this christmas
no money for the rent
gonna be homeless this christmas
because goodwill is spent
*
so fa la la la la
you prop up the bar
and i’ll strum my guitar
pray a coin drops in my jar
*
gonna be homeless this christmas
like you even care
gonna be homeless this christmas
who says life is fair?