Bought for 50p in a jumble sale,

you look so nondescript,

small and square, dark brown, glazed.

Some might say you’re ugly too

but stamped on the underside

is your life story, a maritime heritage,

sold at Stoniers the housewares store

for the White Star Line.

Who poured your milk or water out?

Which ship were you on?

What sea tales do you have to tell?

Did you sail from Liverpool or another Celtic port?

A humble little jug, utility ware,

staring at me from the bookshelf,

a piece of history in ceramic;

possibly Titanic

in value to those it served and maybe

those who survived.

Judith Hall 2015