1 FEBRUARY 1997, Page 51

No. 1970: Sour Auburn

Goldsmith's 'Deserted Village' (`sweet Auburn') powerfully describes the degen- eration of the quality of life in a rural com- munity of his day. You are invited to do the same for our day, in heroic couplets (maxi- mum lb lines). Entries to 'Competition No. 1970' by 13 February.