The way this topic, "the economic problem", has been introduced implies acceptance of the notion that nature is "stingy" and that the appropriate response is to try to maximize the output of goods and services. But this "pro production" bias is itself a problem because it threatens to perpetuate the kind of behaviour that is destroying not only the physical environment, but the quality of life (urban decay, crime, growing inequality, etc.). We should rethink this "scarcity" thesis and ask whether a new economics can be constructed that focuses on reducing wants and promoting life-styles based on consuming less and pursuing other objectives in life. For the sake of my children and future generations I say, let's have more "poetry" and less "food", now!