Beating the Averages
paulgraham.com·Saved Mar 14, 2026AI Summary
The article discusses the author's experience using Lisp, an unconventional programming language, to build a successful startup called Viaweb in 1995. It argues that Lisp can provide a competitive edge due to its potential to improve programming and accelerate software development, despite being less commonly used than languages like C++ or Perl.
Key Points
- Viaweb was an early Web-based application written primarily in Lisp.
- Lisp can make you a better programmer.
- Choosing the right technology, even if unconventional, is crucial for a startup's success.
Topics & Entities
ViawebLispRobert MorrisEric RaymondPythonJavaCPerl
Description
April 2001, rev. April 2003
Short link: save.ink/s/O20N3rkRJB
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