23 DECEMBER 1966, Page 4

Publicity for Poets

'Poets should not be mocked.'—Maurice Richard- son in the 'Observer.'

Poets agree with one accord

They simply hate to be ignored.

They rack their brains devising ways By which to attract the critic's praise, And jump for joy if television Mentions their name, though in derision.

Though Maurice Richardson is shocked To think that poets should be mocked,

In fact the poet counts it fame

If anyone should know his name.

His name makes news. He hopes indeed, Who comes to mock may stay to read, Murmuring, like the biter bit, 'Poeta nascitur, non fit.'

CHRISTOPHER HOLLIS