Today's poem is apt for the day of rest - a cute poem by William Cowper (pronounced Cooper), one of the most popular English poets in the 18th century. In 'The Snail', Cowper meditates on the snail's solitary, hermit-like life whilst parodying its self-containment, pre-figuring today's anxieties about urban isolation. If Cowper were living today, perhaps he might write about 'The Screen'.

After a long hiatus, we return with a love poem. Elizabeth Barrett Browning's Sonnet 43 is a classic love poem from the Victorian era. The penultimate poem in her series of 44 sonnets, sonnet 43 catches the audience's attention instantly with its memorable opening line, "How Do I Love Thee?"

How, indeed? The speaker's conversational opening rises into mythical proportions as she enumerates the countless dimensions of her love — its depth, breadth, and height. Moving from the quiet, everyday to passionate devotional love, the poem, though simple, also gives us a glimpse into the depth and breadth of the speaker's emotional world.

Bill and Akshob discuss the latest Ashes action from the thrilling Tests in Adelaide to a disappointing Boxing Day match in Melbourne.

They discuss standout performances from Alex Carey, Travis Head and Nathan Lyon, critique selection choices and spin options for England, and reflect on the fine margins that decided matches.

The hosts also cover the financial and fan fallout from two short Tests and debate the controversial day-night pink‑ball plan for the 150th anniversary Test at the MCG in 2027.