Anthology Offers Fresh Perspective on Homelessness

Groundbreaking Anthology Amplifies Voices of Writers with Lived Experiences of Homelessness and Poverty

In a transformative new anthology, writers who have experienced hardship firsthand are looking to challenge commonly held views about homelessness and poverty. “More Than One Story” is an inspiring collection, spearheaded by the arts and social justice charity, Cardboard Citizens, featuring work from 37 promising and prominent writers who share their unique narratives of adversity.

“In seeking the voices of ‘More Than One Story’, we were uncertain about who would respond,” stated Cardboard Citizens CEO Chris Sonnex. “The response was a symphony – voices from all over the UK, articulating truths forged by poverty and homelessness, resilience, love, survival, joy, and anger.”

Building on the charity’s well-received 2024 short film series in collaboration with the Big Issue, this anthology comprises nine monologues from fresh voices. An open invitation elicited 135 contributions. Cardboard Citizens members, many of whom have grappled with housing insecurity and poverty, were coached to collaborate with industry professionals in evaluating the submissions.

Out of these, 22 compelling stories were selected to be published, accompanied by original pieces from accomplished authors and playwrights, and the monologues from Cardboard Citizens’ film series. The list of contributors includes renowned personalities such as former children’s laureate Malorie Blackman, Olivier Award-winner Chris Bush, and the T.S. Eliot Prize-winning poet Joelle Taylor.

Even though the backdrop of these stories is grim, Sonnex, who has his personal encounters with homelessness, reassures that the book is not devoid of levity. Most monologues are infused with humour, defiant spirit, and hope. “This is not a book of ‘woe is me’. When you’ve lived these experiences, you tend to approach them with a sense of humor, as it often becomes a coping mechanism,” he added.

“This anthology humanizes its writers. They are no longer mere statistics, but real, flawed, and sometimes funny individuals. This perspective shift is what will redefine the meaning of being homeless or coming from poverty,” said Sonnex.

Sonnex hopes the anthology will serve as an effective tool to encourage the broader arts and entertainment industry to expand their search for untapped talent. “Going through trauma can make one believe they don’t deserve those opportunities. If you consider the percentage of people from working-class backgrounds in the creative and cultural industries, it’s approximately 8%,” he pointed out.

“This book is a testament to these brilliant writers and their diverse backgrounds. Anyone can hire these writers to pen a play or a TV script, or take a chance on them. Their talent is undeniably evident,” Sonnex stated.