[hosepipe]

[.. The initial program requires a programmer - but the program can subsequently modify itself.... / Indeed. It has been explicitly designed so that it can do so, I imagine. ..]

Thats what BOOTSTRAP(program) means.. The strap on the boot that makes it possible to put the foot into the boot.. and "the Foot" can then line dance wherever it wants to..

NO Bootstrap then the "program" is just abstract ideas in an abstract language.. and the "computer" is a poorly designed anchor..

[Alamo-Girl]

Excellent metaphor. Thank you!