The Credit Machine

So before I get into my rant
properly, let me set the scene.
I've got what we call a "good job", a partner,
and a kid. Living the "American Dream".

I've been in debt my whole adult life,
I got my first credit card at eighteen.
I was the consummate consumer,
Sold my soul to the credit machine.

More than a decade later, I'm wiser
but poorer, and now with more bills.
I creak when I walk but I don't see the doc
'cuz there's fees when he cures all my ills.

If I'm lucky I barely break even
as I pay my way forward each day.
When emergency hits I fall further,
cycling debt to pay debt just to pay.

So now my life feels like a prison,
where I live for the credit machine.
It chews up my soul and spits dollars
And leaves this husk in front of you lean.

So I come to you now with a warning,
if you've yet to fall into this hole.
Step lightly into this forest,
Lest you too give up your soul.