egl2001's comments

egl2001 · on Sept 30, 2013

1. Speed and space can be difficult to predict without considerable experience. 2. The libraries are not as extensive and tested compared to conventional choices such as Java or C++.

evincarofautumn · on Sept 30, 2013

Using strict data structures is usually the simplest way to regain predictability:

    data QueryExpr
      = RelVar !Text
      | Restrict !ScalarExpr !QueryExpr
      | Select !(HashMap Text ScalarExpr) !QueryExpr
      | SummarizeBy !(Vector Text) !(HashMap Text ScalarExpr) !QueryExpr

Excessive strictness can cost you performance if you end up evaluating things you didn’t have to, but ASTs should probably be strict. Using Criterion for benchmarking helps find the sweet spot.

I have found Haskell’s library ecosystem quite good—any time I’ve needed a library, there has been a suitable one. In the rare case that changes are necessary, maintainers tend to be responsive and helpful. We probably just work on different kinds of software.

egl2001 · on Sept 5, 2013

The books you have are just fine. The books were high quality when they first came out. Thousands of us studied the first printings without ill effects. Besides, you have the opportunity to test your reading by looking for errors. Just relax and enjoy a masterpiece.

egl2001 · on July 30, 2013

At age 58, his life expectancy is around 20 years, and he could live 10 years or more beyond that, probably with rising care costs throughout. Once he leaves the workforce, voluntarily or involuntarily, he will be completely dependent on savings, retirement plans, and Social Security to support himself and any dependents. Staying in the workforce delays drawing down his savings, reducing the risk of running out of money at the far end---when he can't do a d-d thing about it. So, yeah, it makes sense that he wants to keep working, independent of whether he "should" be able to stretch his money.

pigscantfly · on July 30, 2013

I don't understand why so many are criticizing this guy; if he doesn't want to retire right now like it seems, why shouldn't he work for another few years until he's ready? Obviously increasing his savings in the meantime will do him well when he does decide to leave the workforce.