[classified]

> Why won't they implement proper metaprogramming support instead of proliferating the core language?

Proper metaprogramming support is hard. Polluting the language with special case hocus pocus is relatively easy.

[marmaduke]

> Polluting the language with special case hocus pocus is relatively easy

or if it's well done is it still hocus pocus pollution?

[classified]

Then it's pollution with compiler magic. But only if it's really well done.