Tim Bray brings together some threads on languages, some in (Ruby) and others out (Java) of fashion. It is an interesting clash of world views, and I can't help gawking. Some snapshots from the discussion: Bruce Eckel explains Java's list APIs (among other things); the virtues of bracketing and indentation as delimiters are argued and countered; extensive language comparisons are made and criticized (Ruby vs. Python Vs. Perl Vs. Java). I think these things matter to some extent. I also think it is great to be passionate about choice of language, particularly given how much time one can spend at the keyboard.

So what's missing from this debate? One snippet stands out for me: "I'm tired of all impositions by a language upon my thinking process." This is a strong hint that finding a better general-purpose programming languages might not really be the answer. What if we set about making our own abstractions into programming languages¹? I am talking, of course, about DSLs and their potential to move many of us working programmers away from this kind of discussion. It might just the caffeine talking, of course, but who really needs a better flavor of list? My message to you: "Quit worrying about bracing and start thinking in domain models!"

Next actions: Read the Generative Programming book, and if Microsoft.Net is your thing then check out the DSL Tools.

¹ Of course the economics are likely not good at the individual level, depending on tooling, problem domain, and intended use. Get some help.

Dixies barbecue in Bellevue is locally renowned for serving hot, hot chili. Eating aforementioned chili is colloquially known as "meeting the man". I decided to investigate on Saturday. The proprietor makes a show out of coming around to each table and gruffly asking customers if they had ever met the man, if they wanted to meet the man today, and if so, how much. A half teaspoon lead me to wonder at what stage such a spicy sauce i. becomes a health hazard ii. must be regulated by some government agency. This article fleshes out the Dixies story, and I draw your attention to one exchange in particular:

What's in "The Man"? Heat.

Tags: seattle

A couple of weeks ago I [drum roll] submitted my thesis - "Unifying Abstractions and Code with Concern Maps". I had a lot of fun researching and hacking it out over the last two years, so much so that I miss working on it. On the bright side, my new day job has a strong resemblance.

I have spent most of November and December settling into life in Seattle (rythmn: work... work... work...), apartment hunting and generally killing time until my wife gets over here in the new year. Tonight, killing time == slowly getting to know ML for the purpose of reading Appel, which I have started and stopped a few times.

I am also taking applications for my next big hacking project. A couple of weeks ago I was toying with the idea of writing a zeitgeist --> Adwords arbitrage program, but I think I will keep my powder dry until I finish Appel. At my current velocity this will be some time.