When someone says, “I want a programming language in which I need only say what I want done,” give him a lollipop.
ALAN PERLISIt is better to have 100 functions operate on one data structure than to have 10 functions operate on 10 data structures.
More Alan Perlis Quotes
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In programming, as in everything else, to be in error is to be reborn.
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I don’t think we are. I think we’re responsible for stretching them, setting them off in new directions, and keeping fun in the house.
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In the long run, every program becomes rococo, and then rubble.
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Dealing with failure is easy.
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Because of its vitality, the computing field is always in desperate need of new cliches.
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What fun is there in making plans, acquiring discipline in organizing thoughts, devoting attention to detail and learning to be self-critical?
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In English every word can be verbed.
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You can measure a programmer’s perspective by noting his attitude on the continuing vitality of FORTRAN.
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One can only display complex information in the mind.
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A language that doesn’t affect the way you think about programming is not worth knowing.
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A LISP programmer knows the value of everything, but the cost of nothing.
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Like seeing, movement or flow or alteration of view is more important than the static picture, no matter how lovely.
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Banality soothes our nerves.
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Once you understand how to write a program get someone else to write it.
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You’ve solved the wrong problem. Work hard to improve.
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