We’re pleased at plucking whiskers,
Squeezing zits, applying paint
Upon our fingernails and toes,
Teasing hair or braiding it in stylish rows.

Now I play these PC games,
Moving cards or clicking tiles,
My mind a blank but feeling
I am doing something smart,

When all the while I know
It’s just the chance to bit-by-bit
Examine and manipulate
That charms me.

I’d be better off by far
If, like the monkeys,
I were picking ticks
And fleas.