Thank you. I have been married to a programmer for almost 20 years - this article was very enlightening. I always wondered what was going on with my "mad scientist" when he retreated deep into his work and I was not to disturb him. After hours of his being sequestered in the basement glued to the computer - I would dare to ask him the question - "Would you like something to eat?" He would stare at me blankly unable to answer at best, and at worst this question would start a war. It all makes sense now - thank you!