7 NOVEMBER 1981, Page 41

To My Daughter

When I'm far out in drink, your musical box Gives me the horrors. Mermaids on the rocks, Beached rabbits, stranded starfish, teddy bears — Simpering pyknic picnickers in pairs — To a terrible rallentando tinkle pass Across a thumb-hazed sky of plastic glass. Then you rewind the sea-song that's run down And paddle in glee, my darling, while I drown.

James Michie