Can we know it’s Christmas?

Do you recall the Bob Geldof/Midge Ure Band Aid single from 1984 (or even the 2004 version)?

Well, it seems some other iconic figures are working on the next chart-topping hit (not). Rather like the new intergovernmental treaty, nobody seems to know quite what it’s in aid of. However, the mulled wine stains on the hand-scrawled lyrics that came our way make them appear authentic. Transcribed here:

Can we know it’s Christmas?

(All)
It’s Christmas time, we’re trying hard not to be afraid
At Christmas time, we let Jean-Claude smoke and forgive Dave

(Herman)

And while we struggle with our treaties, we still spread a smile of joy!
Don’t mistake our resolve at Christmas time!

(José)
But say a prayer – pray for the EU staff
Doing extra time. It’s hard, cos when you’re downing stuff
They’re just staring at their emails

(Nicolas)
Waiting on rating agencies
Hoping banks will make good use of that unlimited liquidity
And the market bells are ringing out the euro’s new year doom

(Angela)
And soon there’ll be homework for all of you

(Monti)
And there’s little for the Club Med folks this Christmas time
We just signed up to pay the Germans fines

Our economies barely grow
Reaping what the euro sowed

(All)
Can we know it’s Christmas time at all?

Here’s to us
Cheering for the Union
Here’s to them
Underneath those burning bonds

Can we know it’s Christmas time at all?

(Mario, repeats over and over)

E C B
E C B
E C B
Remember it’s not Santa Claus