James Coplien

So... if painting doesn’t feel like coding, I have at least one more level to master before I can call myself a painter? I have to ask, since I’m a painter but not much of a programmer. Or do I need to master both for this to work?

What part of “metaphor” do you not understand?

Unless you're talking about the language Piet, programming is about forming a mental model, logic, problem-solving, collaboration and planning for the future. We need to stop drawing unfair parallels to other occupations and, while we're at it ,stop propagating exclusivity.

Logic? Bullshit. Can you make a single formal logical assertion about your program? The rest are all part of painting.

What you do for a job it doesn't need to feel like painting or be your passion, everyone is different and that's ok. Perhaps.... we can support people more and help them discover the things they can be really excited about in work, more humane.

I spend my life supporting the people who want to be supported. I think that is not the issue here. The issue here is: Who wants to be supported?

If plumbing doesn't feel like you're writing poetry with iron you have at least another level to master before calling yourself a plumber.

If working in a slaughterhouse doesn't feel like a euphoric touching of Cthulhus loins you have at least another level to master before calling yourself a slaughterer.

<- Professional artist (painter) turned C# Unity programmer. I'll let you in on a secret...it's all work. Sure, it can be "fun" and has moments of pure bliss but it's all work.

Writer/programmer and it's all a slog even if it's a "passion". Yeah there are some awesome moments where it all feels effortless, but that doesn't last long. Then you're on to the next challenge.