@trixie
I agree with others here, don't let his view on things weigh you down.
It sounds like he has been so busy making a living and a life for himself doing whatever he was (self-?)educated to do, that he never really got time to find out how to enjoy "playing" and experimenting, either with the tools of his daily work or for that matter some completely different hobby.
It's something that I have seen happen to some people who make computers and programming their carreer. Maybe in the beginning it fascinates you enough that it can fill not only your working hours, but also your spare time. And then the road to total nerddom is paved and polished.
Then again, databases *are* fascinating ... I spent the last couple of decades of my career getting deeper and deeper into them
. But I was lucky enough to have a life as well - and my Amiga interest.
Thanks for an excellent post with lots of food for thought.
Best regards,
Niels