Re^5: Perl 5 Optimizing Compiler, Part 9: RPerl.org & The Low-Magic Perl Commandments

[dave_the_m]

(As it happens I did read the FAQ)

Since "magic" has a specific meaning within perl, can I suggest you use some other term?

To expand upon the RPython issue: RPython is not intended for writing general code; its intended specifically only for writing interpreters; within that limited use case, it makes sense to have a language similar to python, but highly restricted (in particular, static typing).

In the RPerl case, you seem to be targetting it towards general code, where you mark limited sections of your code as targets for optimisation. The problem seems to me that your restrictions are so severe (no regexes!!!!) that virtually no real-life code is amenable to any speed-ups.

Dave.

[Will_the_Chill]

Dave,

I appreciate your suggestion of not expanding the already-specific meaning of the term "magic" in relation to Perl. Do you have any suggestions? Maybe something magic-like, such as "mystical" or "charmed" or "miracle"?

I am very interested in expanding upon the RPython issue. :) Like RPython, RPerl can definitely be used to write interpreters. In fact, I see that as a possible huge win in the future. Like RPython, RPerl (initially, at least) also requires static typing.

To a degree you are correct, I am targeting RPerl toward general-use code in the long-term. In the short-term, RPerl will most immediately be useful for hot code, such as a computational kernel which is already separated from other code and can safely be re-written into "low-magic" (barring better terminology) form.

I think the deeper issue is the Perl community's (perhaps unhealthy) love affair with high-magic code, and even medium-magic code. This is echoed in your statement that "Perl without its internal 'magic' implementation is essentially no longer Perl." However, have no fear, lover of magic! As I've stated repeatedly:

1. We can mix low-magic code with high-magic code.

AND

2. We can add back in all the high-magic components after we've got RPerl v1.0 working with the low-magic components.

Specifically, regular expressions will likely be the VERY FIRST THING added back into RPerl after v1.0 is done. I know how much everybody loves their regexes.

Perling,
~ Will

[Anonymous Monk]

I propose mugic pronounced like mujic (if you type mujic into eSpeak) , cause you sip from a mug, a magical musical brew, just in case its ick or the answer is mu

[Will_the_Chill]

LOL! Okay "mugic" will be taken into official consideration. :)