I'm rather loath to write about sloth;

The subject does not inspire me:

To force myself might affect my health

And inevitably tire me.

I'll be late for the send-off date

If I don't compose something soon:

Yes but how can I do it now -

Better wait till this afternoon.

I've thought of reams of clever schemes

And half-written them in my head

But I'm out of stamps and have writers' cramp -

Perhaps I should go back to bed?

Philippa Lawrence, Salisbury

Polly Clark writes: A common feeling among aspiring writers, given an amusing treatment by Philippa.

You can email Polly

on polly.clark@soton-echo.co.uk