SINGER: Ian Anderson

SONG:Birthday Card At Christmas

Got a birthday card at christmas
it made me think of jesus christ.
it said, "i love you" in small letters.
i simply had to read it twice.
wood smoke curled from blackened chimneys.
the smell of frost was in the air.
pole star hovered in the blackness.
i looked again: it wasn't there.
People have showered me with presents.
while their minds were fixed on other things.
sleigh bells, bearded red suit uncles.
pointy trees and angel wings.
i am the shadow in your christmas.
i am the corner of your smile.
perfunctory in celebration.
you offer content but no style.

That little baby jesus.
he got a birthday card or three.
gold trinkets and cheap frankincense.
some penny baubles for his tree.
have some time off for good behaviour.
forty days, give or take a few.
hey there, sweet baby jesus
let's share a birthday card with you.