Re: The Guile community we could have (or: solving Worse is More Accessible)

[Christopher Allan Webber <cwebber@dustycloud.org>]

Ludovic Courtès writes:

> Christopher Allan Webber <cwebber@dustycloud.org> skribis:
>
>> To put it another way, many here have probably read the "Worse is
>> Better" essays.  That paradox of "better" I think sticks in the craw of
>> many lispers; something both seems wrong and yet frustratingly right
>> about it.  Maybe another way to look at it: "Worse is more accessible",
>> or "worse has the path of least resistance", or also importantly, "worse
>> is where I felt welcomed."  Given that, no wonder many people feel safe
>> and better rather than what lispers believe is "the right thing".
>>
>> But maybe we could have both.  I believe it requires effort, and perhaps
>> a rebranding of imagery.  The wizard towers are still there if you want
>> them... I doubt any lisper or schemer will give up on Guile or Scheme
>> because of some fun and inviting drawings.  The fun drawings don't take
>> anything away!  But they add something: they make Guile feel like
>> somplace, even as a newcomer, you might belong.
>
> I’ve had your message and thoughts in the back of my mind for some time
> and yes, your characterization of wizardry and the message it conveys to
> newcomers, suggesting both a place where “magical” things happen and an
> intimidating community, makes a lot of sense to me.
>
> The new web site seems like a way to improve that image, indeed!
>
> Ludo’.

\o/