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I wonder how hard it would be to keep the S-expression syntax when the new one is implemented. As a C and Lisp programmer I'm intrigued by the possibilities - C-family syntax being IMO more readable, but Lisp providing unparalleled (in my experience) metaprogramming possibilities.

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I'm also a Lisp and C programmer (want to get better at Forth too).

I think Lisp and C (not C++) share an important characteristic that few other languages share: being low-level.

C is low-level due to minimal abstractions from the hardware.

Lisp is low-level due to minimal abstractions from the AST.

People wanting to program very close to hardware feel comfortable with C. People wanting to program very close to the compiler feel comfortable with Lisp.

I am planning to make the s-expr form the on disk format.

Does that mean you are planning a specific editor for it?

I was thinking more of some light weight tools that convert between the two representations and which can be hooked into existing editors.

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