Memoir of a Loner

Loner Entry #8 — Homeless

Date: 23 September 2025
Location: Lewisham, southeast London

Entry:
After finishing late at the Goldsmiths Student Union Bar, I walked home around 3:30 a.m. The streets were extremely quiet, broken only by the occasional car and the fading of someone's voice.

A homeless woman approached me. Her distress was immediately visible. She had an infected mouth, likely from drug use, and limped, evidence of previous physical harm. Hesitant, I removed my earphones, aware I had little to offer. A pang of guilt washed over me — I’ve been insulated from struggles like this for most of my life.

Unexpectedly, she first offered her food from a plastic bag. I declined, trying to engage as best I could while acknowledging my limited ability to help. The encounter left me feeling a heavy sense of helplessness as I thought about the stark reality of London.

Her desperation was unlike anything I had experienced before. She showed me needle scars and explained that survival on the streets often meant enduring abuse. Her voice cracked as she gasped…

Quote / Overheard:
“They force things down my throat. Please help. No one cares about me. I’m going to end it all now.”