28 MAY 1988, Page 27

Smug Jug

Though caught in the act Of admiring itself For its porcelain tact, Its high-on-the-shelf Refusal to think That someone might dare Ask for a drink When seeing it there, This jug has just proved That a proud heart takes pains Not to be loved For what it contains While a heart that is true Though mere earthenware Is loved through and through For what it can pour.

John Mole