This project introduces "SHORTY," a C++ utility that aims to make lambdas more concise. It achieves this by providing a macro-based system that replaces standard lambda syntax with a shorter, more symbolic representation. Essentially, SHORTY allows developers to define and use lambdas with fewer characters, potentially improving code readability in some cases by reducing boilerplate. However, this comes at the cost of relying on macros and introducing a new syntax that deviates from standard C++. The project documentation argues that the benefits in brevity outweigh the costs for certain use cases.
Crabtime brings Zig's comptime functionality to Rust, enabling evaluation of functions and expressions at compile time. It utilizes a procedural macro to transform annotated Rust code into a syntax tree that can be executed during compilation. This allows for computations, including string manipulation, type construction, and resource embedding, to be performed at compile time, leading to improved runtime performance and reduced binary size. Crabtime is still early in its development but aims to provide a powerful mechanism for compile-time metaprogramming in Rust.
HN commenters discuss crabtime, a library bringing Zig's comptime functionality to Rust. Several express excitement about the potential for metaprogramming and compile-time code generation, viewing it as a way to achieve greater performance and flexibility. Some raise concerns about the complexity and potential misuse of such powerful features, comparing it to template metaprogramming in C++. Others question the practical benefits and wonder if the added complexity is justified. The potential for compile times to increase significantly is also mentioned as a drawback. A few commenters suggest alternative approaches, like using build scripts or procedural macros, though the author clarifies that crabtime aims to offer something distinct. The overall sentiment seems to be cautious optimism, with many intrigued by the possibilities but also aware of the potential pitfalls.
Clojure offers a compelling blend of practicality and powerful abstractions. Its Lisp syntax, while initially daunting, promotes code clarity and conciseness once mastered. Immutability by default simplifies reasoning about code and facilitates concurrency, while the dynamic nature allows for rapid prototyping and interactive development. Leveraging the vast Java ecosystem provides stability and performance, and the focus on functional programming principles encourages robust and maintainable applications. Ultimately, Clojure empowers developers to build complex systems with elegance and efficiency.
HN commenters generally agree with the author's points on Clojure's strengths, particularly its simple, consistent syntax, powerful data structures, and the benefits of immutability and functional programming for concurrency. Some discuss practical advantages in their own work, citing increased productivity and fewer bugs. A few caution that Clojure's unique features have a learning curve and can make debugging more challenging. Others mention Lisp's historical influence and the powerful REPL as key benefits, while some debate the practicality of Clojure's immutability and the ecosystem's reliance on Java. Several commenters highlight Clojure's suitability for specific domains like data processing and web development. There's also discussion around tooling, with some praise for Clojure's tooling and others mentioning room for improvement.
Kanata is a cross-platform keyboard remapping tool that supports creating complex, layered keymaps. It allows users to define multiple layers, activate them with various methods (like modifier keys or keyboard shortcuts), and apply remappings specific to each layer. The configuration is text-based and highly customizable, offering fine-grained control over individual keys and combinations. Kanata is designed to be lightweight and portable, working across different operating systems including Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Hacker News users discussed Kanata's potential, praising its cross-platform compatibility and advanced features like multi-layer keymaps and scripting. Some expressed excitement about finally having a viable alternative to Karabiner on Windows and Linux. Concerns were raised about the project's early stage of development, documentation gaps, and reliance on Node.js for some core functionality. A few commenters questioned the necessity of Node.js, suggesting a native implementation could improve performance and reduce dependencies. Others shared their personal use cases and desired features, like integration with existing configuration tools and support for specific keyboard layouts. The overall sentiment was positive, with many users eager to try Kanata and contribute to its development.
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https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43629380
HN users largely discussed the potential downsides of Shorty, a C++ library for terser lambdas. Concerns included readability and maintainability suffering due to excessive brevity, especially for those unfamiliar with the library. Some argued against introducing more cryptic syntax to C++, preferring explicitness over extreme conciseness. Others questioned the practical benefits, suggesting existing lambda syntax is sufficient and the library's complexity outweighs its advantages. A few commenters expressed mild interest, acknowledging the potential for niche use cases but emphasizing the importance of careful consideration before widespread adoption. Several also debated the library's naming conventions and overall design choices.
The Hacker News post discussing the "shorty" C++ header for terser lambdas generated a moderate amount of discussion, mostly focused on the potential downsides and alternatives to the approach.
Several commenters expressed concern over the readability and maintainability of code using
shorty. One commenter argued that while brevity can be good, excessive terseness can harm readability, especially for those unfamiliar with theshortysyntax. They suggested that the potential gains in character count are outweighed by the increased cognitive load required to understand the code. Another user echoed this sentiment, pointing out that C++ is already a complex language, and adding more cryptic syntax likeshortyfurther exacerbates the issue. They questioned the real-world benefit, suggesting that saving a few keystrokes is not worth the potential confusion.The discussion also touched upon the potential for namespace pollution and name clashes. One commenter pointed out the risk of unintended consequences when using generic short names like those provided by
shorty, especially in larger projects. They suggested that more descriptive lambda names, even if longer, are generally preferable for clarity.Alternatives to
shortywere also proposed. One user mentioned using an editor snippet or macro to achieve similar brevity without introducing new syntax. Another suggested leveraging existing C++ features likeautoand structured bindings to simplify code without sacrificing readability. A commenter highlighted the benefits of refactoring complex logic into separate functions, thereby reducing the need for lengthy lambdas in the first place. They argued this approach often leads to more organized and understandable code.A few comments briefly acknowledged the potential usefulness of
shortyin specific, limited contexts, such as competitive programming or code golfing, where character count is paramount. However, the general consensus seemed to be that for most practical applications, the potential drawbacks ofshortyoutweigh its benefits. There was a clear preference for maintaining code clarity and readability over achieving extreme terseness.