As I am shitting, I am staring at the tiles on the opposite bathroom wall. Two down and three across equals six. Three down and four across equals twelve. Etc. Out of the blue I remember my first days in school. Is there anything simpler than ceramic tiles to teach children multiplication, as well as areas? Why did we have to learn multiplication tables by heart? By the time I am finished, I realize that this is how children may actually learn basic multiplication rules nowadays. Besides, abstract thought has its own charms. As I am washing my hands, I smile at myself in the mirror. There is a devilish twinkle in my eyes. All things considered, abstract thought and shitting go pretty well together.