FOREWORD: The impact of text messages and internet chat has blunted the ability that some of us have to appreciate satirical responses. Without the aid of emoticons, it seems we're pretty useless.

Satira, you brag so well
that no one knows of what you’ve done,
and thinks that every joke you tell
has been designed to hurt someone.
Even when you’ve grown sincere
and mean to sting or criticise,
they laugh and smile, and make it clear
they understand you – otherwise.

But how to get the balance right,
does anybody have a clue?

Oh Satira, no need to fight;
the final laugh belongs to you!
Just punctuate with ‘lol’
emoticons to get you through;
(or hope that someone else out there
has figured out where humour’s
due).