Happy Muslim Mama: Streets of London

We were taught this song at school as nine-year olds, and the images the words create were so powerful at that time that they have always stayed with me. At the time the poem reminded me of East London and Green Street Market which was frequented by my mum. I love London and it’s an amazing place, but this song is a good reminder of another side of my city we would do well not to forget.Streets of London (song), written by Ralph McTell.Have you seen the old manIn the closed-down marketKicking up the paper,with his worn out shoes? In his eyes you see no prideHands held loosely at his sideYesterday’s paper telling yesterday’s newsChorus: So how can you tell me you’re lonely,And say for you that the sun don’t shine?Let me take you by the hand and lead you through the streets of LondonI’ll show you something to make you change your mindHave you seen the old girlWho walks the streets of LondonDirt in her hair and her clothes in rags?She’s no time for talking,She just keeps right on walkingCarrying her home in two carrier bags.In the all night cafeAt a quarter past eleven,Same old man is sitting there on his ownLooking at the worldOver the rim of his tea-cup,Each tea lasts an hourThen he wanders home alone.Have you seen the old manOutside the Seaman’s MissionMemory fading with the medal ribbons that he wearsIn our winter city, The rain cries a little pityFor one more forgotten heroAnd a world that doesn’t care.