The term "carefully arranged rocks" cries out oversimplification, by it's own choice of words.

That said, I think there is usefulness to borrowing from metaphors around spells, magic, and enchantment when we attempt to explain computers and software. Sadly (as far as I'm aware) old metaphors are fairly anemic, and the idea of magic is limited to things like cursing people and summoning daemons which always ends up badly.

It seems that most of the complex literature about magic is more contemporary work that is sort of "back dated" to feel old and wise. As it happens, this makes for stunningly good fantasy literature.

I'm aware that this whole direction of thought is sensitive for Christians, whose have a sort of Sorcerer's Apprentice view of magic, as something that is inherently evil and must never be touched.