On: In the Beginning was the Command Line (1999)

[jll29]

Wow, a ~38k words essay about the command line.

[dgritsko → jll29]

I take it you've not read Neal Stephenson before. I often describe him as someone who uses 1000 words where others would use 500 - but I love him for it; he's probably my favorite author.

[the__alchemist → dgritsko]

Same! I love the degree of plausibility in his novels. Even the most outlandish elements have been well-researched, and thought out.

[thewakalix → jll29]

It's about more than just the command line.

[NateEag → jll29]

I'd describe it as an essay about complexity, computing history, open vs. closed systems, and personal responsibility.