from
The Free On-line Dictionary of Computing (8 July 2008)
hack mode
deep hack mode
<jargon> Engaged in {hack}ing. A Zen-like state of total
focus on The Problem that may be achieved when one is hacking
(this is why every good hacker is part mystic). Ability to
enter such concentration at will correlates strongly with
wizardliness; it is one of the most important skills learned
during {larval stage}. Sometimes amplified as "deep hack
mode".
Being yanked out of hack mode (see {priority interrupt}) may
be experienced as a physical shock, and the sensation of being
in hack mode is more than a little habituating. The intensity
of this experience is probably by itself sufficient
explanation for the existence of hackers, and explains why
many resist being promoted out of positions where they can
code. See also {cyberspace}.
Some aspects of hackish etiquette will appear quite odd to an
observer unaware of the high value placed on hack mode. For
example, if someone appears at your door, it is perfectly okay
to hold up a hand (without turning one's eyes away from the
screen) to avoid being interrupted. One may read, type, and
interact with the computer for quite some time before further
acknowledging the other's presence (of course, he or she is
reciprocally free to leave without a word). The understanding
is that you might be in {hack mode} with a lot of delicate
state in your head, and you dare not {swap} that context out
until you have reached a good point to pause. See also
{juggling eggs}.
[{Jargon File}]
(1996-07-31)