To think that it's NOT OK for my boss to poke me in the back to get my attention?

[Horrocious]

It was a hard dig between the ribs under my shoulderblade. It hurt.

I didn't say anything at the time as I was running around trying to get several things done at once, but now I'm thinking... that's not right.

He's a grumpy sod at the best of times, but I can put up with him grumbling and barking.

He was trying to draw my attention to the fact that he didn't have a cup of coffee for his meeting.

Is this really off or am I over-reacting?

Well, then keep doing what you have to do :( you aren't in any position to piss him off, just tell him nicely (bleurgh) that it hurt & to please not do it again (whilst picturing doing him grevious bodily harm!!).

Good luck getting a new job, I'll have my fingers crossed for you. When you have started your new job, then tell him what an absolute wanker he is - until then, practice your delivery of it!

In my first job, my manager was doing his nut about some mistake I'd made which involved him wagging his finger right in my face; so I grabbed his finger and bit it. Hard.

I fully expected to be sacked in the spot, but bizarrely enough, he marched out of the room and never mentioned it again.
I'm not suggesting you do the same; but, you know, never let anyone get in your space like that. Tell him he's out of order.

molly you bit his finger... obviously that it totally out of line but I am pissing myself. I bet he had that coming!!!

He didn't report me either, Jack, obviously felt too embarrassed to relate the full ridiculous tale to those on high.
I still don't know what possessed me to do it.. Had to quickly drink a can of coke to kill any germs!

NOT ok. At all. Your job is clearly important to you, but if it happens again, just state clearly that a poke in the back is not an appropriate way to get your attention. "Excuse me Horrocious" from now on would be great.

Molly - that is hilarious!

Obviously, completely instinctive, defensive behaviour towards someone aggressively invading your personal space. He obviously realised this and knew he couldn't complain!