in reply to forcing list-context

Unfortunately, even the squeeze operator will still build a long list then discard it, in order to count its members.

More efficient would be:

my $entries = -2; ++$entries while readdir $dh;

With the rise and rise of 'Social' network sites: 'Computers are making people easier to use everyday'
Examine what is said, not who speaks -- Silence betokens consent -- Love the truth but pardon error.
"Science is about questioning the status quo. Questioning authority".
In the absence of evidence, opinion is indistinguishable from prejudice.

The start of some sanity?