Big Issue
- A magazine for you to buy
Many times when I go into Southampton there is at least one person
selling "The Big Issue". I mostly buy a copy, but sometimes I'll miss them,
walk by or pass a second seller having already bought a copy. This makes me
feel uncomfortable inside ...
Don't look away, don't pass me by.
I've a magazine here, for you to buy.
See my smile and not my clothes.
Trust me, I didn't choose those.
Don't cross the street just to avoid me.
I'm a person with my own identity.
It's just a bad time, but it could be worse.
I could really use that pound in your purse.
Don't avoid my eye, don't walk so fast.
I'll still be sat here when you've walked past.
I have no home apart from this doorway.
I don't want to live my whole life this way.
No need to feel guilty, I'm not asking much.
I just need some money, no need to touch.
If I get lucky today I can sleep well tonight.
I've had enough of drunkards and moonlight.
I'm not after pity, just a chance that I seek.
To have a hot meal at least once this week.
I'm on my way up from sharing a squat.
But can't make the bills with the money I've got.
Don't look away, don't pass me by.
I've a magazine here, for you to buy.
A pound or so may not seem much for you.
But right now for me, it's the "Big Issue".
Category: "Comment", Star-Rating: **
Written by Keith Lambell, June 13th 2002
Poem viewed 24 times since March 2002.