Able Quote by Yukihiro Matsumoto
“Language designers want to design the perfect language. They want to be able to say, 'My language is perfect. It can do everything.' But it's just plain impossible to design a perfect language, because there are two ways to look at a language. One way is by looking at what can be done with that language. The other is by looking at how we feel using that language-how we feel while programming.”
About This Quote
It argues that a perfect programming language cannot exist because usefulness and emotional experience are both essential.
In simple terms: No language can be perfect; it must balance capability and feel.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize both power and developer joy.
Themes
software design
programming languages
human factors
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
technical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- software development
- language design workshops
- team coding sessions
Key Concepts
usability
expressiveness
creativity
Questions to Reflect On
- What compromises are acceptable in language design?
- How does emotional satisfaction affect productivity?
A Different Perspective
Perfect language is unattainable; trade‑offs are inevitable.
