[clasp-devel] First Contribution: Proposed README_FIRST.txt

[Andrew Robin]

License: Public Domain

YMMV

As of 6/25/2015, I could not get Clasp to compile, even once.  See #clasp
IRC log with entries tagged "clasp-build:".  Ignore ones with arobin.  I
started on 6/20/2015.  For me, 6 days is enough for this incarnation of
Clasp.

Currently, compiling Clasp from source is not for the faint of heart.  Some
have done it, others like me have failed.  You have to go to an IRC chat
room #clasp (admittedly, a nice, pleasant one ;) to do this for all
practical purposes.  Don't bug Chris unless you are serious because he is
busy.  I learned today the source code might change underneath you between
builds--the make system seems to pull working repositories behind your back
each time you run "make".  I definitely am not being critical--I have
bootstrapped some scary systems, like a prototype VM on a custom PowerPC
board--and it isn't easy.

I thought I could do it because:
o I have 25 years experience with Lisp and C++ and every language
imaginable, in many application areas
o I have distributed and contributed to a number of free projects,
including building some iffy prototypes
o I have worked on an Ada -> custom VM (human) safety critical compiler
written from scratch--we weren't allowed to HAVE a make system for
reproducibility
o I have a strong need for the technology Chris is developing
o I am very independent--I don't really even have a hand to hold, being a
bird and all
o I have a bird-brain and a degree in CS

Where I went wrong:
o Believed something I read on the internet
o I don't possess knowledge of some of the more advanced concepts in Lisp,
such as atoms, cons cells, and "groveling".
o I fell for the line of "try this test version".  It is (semi) stable for
me or nothing from now on.
o I have no knowledge of bjam.  To be fair (to me) I have built boost (why
does a template programming library need to be built?) from source.
o I have always been more of a humorist than a software developer--I was
born in Missouri and have read all of Mark Twain's works, more than once.
Most people don't think I'm funny.
o I don't work well with others
o I have a bird-brain and a degree in CS

I would resign, but I don't work here, contrary to what my current boss
thinks.  I guess I can lurk here on the mailing list--unless I'm banned.

Peace, and good luck. :-|

--Andy (o>
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