[dagw]

True, but the only complete documentation of the file format I found was the source code of the reference implementation. So the only way to write a new implementation is to study the reference implementation, which will make your new implementation "tainted".

[antientropic]

Studying GPL'ed source code does not "taint" anything. You're absolutely allowed to do that. If you're really concerned about subconsciously copying elements of the original into your implementation, you could let somebody else study the original and write a spec.

[dagw]

Studying GPL'ed source code does not "taint" anything.

This is far from my area of expertise, but lawyers smarter than me about these things disagree.

[nickpsecurity]

That's what I had people do.

[belorn]

Guess how many court cases has been about developers tainted from reading code.

1000? 1? 0?

Zero. You are about as likely to be tainted from reading GPL code as to be tainted by reading HN, the news paper, or driving around in silicon valley and looking at building with programmers in them.

[dagw]

You, I and common sense may believe that. However highly paid lawyers at very big companies has told me otherwise in no uncertain terms.