a writer with a 'tin ear' for dialogue [=who writes dialogue that does not sound real]
My wife is a talented musician, but I have a 'tin ear'.
a 'tin' of biscuits/tobacco
(..) - Good evening, gentlemen. - Good evening, captain. - Won't you join us? - Thank you. It's a pleasure to have you here. Champagne and a tin of caviar. May I recommend Veuve Clicquot '? A good French wine. Very well, sir. - A very interesting club. - Especially so tonight. (..)1942 Casablanca