zlacker

>>speckx+(OP)
I think it is due to the fact that Perl has some confusing bits like those variable prefixes ($@%), the lack of function arguments (I know that this has changed recently), not really great error handling, etc and so people started using languages which seemed easier to use like Python.

>>mono44+XH
The variable prefixes are just the tip of the iceberg. The real problem with those prefixes is that they, themselves, are context-dependent on attributes associated with the underlying data type at run time. So you can find yourself in a situation where the behavior of the syntax differs in ways that are difficult to control for during development.

>>throww+uM
Strongly agree. A language which has something like “wantarray” as a first-class feature is semantically…unique, at best, probably more like “flawed by design”. All the oddness with typing and sigls descends from that.

Same for autovivification. Insane feature. Useful for some problems but causes many more.

Which is a shame, because perl5 semantics had some nice features too! But there’s only so much you can do with a structure whose foundation is so wacky.

>>zbentl+3h1
You unlocked hidden memories within me.

I never understood why Perl has all these crazy features. It feels like someone going "hah it would be funny if it worked like this..." but actually really implementing it.

People always said "it's because Larry Wall is a linguist!" as if it explains anything!

You always go from "this is neat" to "...but why" quickly with perl.