[city41]

But I'd argue `case` in Lisp does have different syntax from `if`. They are built out of the same primitives, but you have to know how to compose those primitives. It's much like saying all functions are the same, but in reality you need to know the arity, order of parameters, etc before calling a function.

To me, Lisp often felt like if the English language only had commas for punctuation. We then formulated all possible scenarios out of words and commas. Sure it's simple, easy for a computer to parse, etc, but it off loads a lot of work onto us as we read.

I'm also reminded of when I took a typography class in art school. My professor was adament about typography not being "grey". He really wanted us to use weight, contrast, spacing, to create and enforce a hierarchy within our typography which would guide and aid the reader. I'd argue Lisp is completely "grey", while other languages are not.

Don't get me wrong, this thread has been a great read and I've gained new respect from Lisp from it. I'm inspired to give it another go.