"On Lisp" argues that programming problems are best solved by constructing a problem-specific language built on top of Lisp. This approach, termed "bottom-up programming," involves using Lisp's "macros" to create these specialized languages, making it easier to express solutions. The book focuses on Common Lisp and its macros, detailing their construction and application within this programming paradigm.
Readers learn how to leverage Lisp macros to design and implement custom languages tailored to particular programming challenges. The book provides practical coverage of Common Lisp macros and their diverse applications, illustrating the principles of bottom-up programming. This enables programmers to tackle complex issues by defining more expressive and concise ways to describe their problems.
Key concepts
- Bottom-up programming — A programming style where a problem-specific language is built on top of a general-purpose language.
- Macros — Basic Lisp constructs used to build problem-specific languages.