Oooh, getting lots of replies on this one: I think the problem is when you focus too much on the form of the code and not what you are actually trying to achieve. I have written some (rarely, I admit) lovely code but when I try it I am horrified when it doesn't work.

Later, usually after a nicoteine and Dr.Pepper fix, when I look at it again I suddenly notice the truth:

There is no problem with the code. Instead, try to realise that the problem is not in the code but... Thinks: I've still not got the Matrix out of my system... comes from your assumptions that you have built into the code.

I do like the

if ($foo = $bar && $foo != $bar)
{
    #code
}
[download]

though, it's a nice cockup.

Elgon