Expected Value Haikus

by Lawrence Mark Lesser

Deal or No Deal
The banker offers
less than expected value,
as was expected.

62% Shooter’s 1-and-1
Expected number
of points is 1, the outcome
that is least likely!

Exchange Paradox
Dogs swap bowls and beds,
sure the other’s better like
Monty’s other door.

Negative Expected Value
Lottery tickets,
extended car warranty,
or health insurance.

Expectation in the Balance
Where distributions
balance like a see-saw with
one’s child more distant.

Unbiased
It is hard to speak
about expected value
and avoid bias.

The Point
I could reduce a
distribution to EV,
but that would be mean.