We should also probably "formalize" the semantics of #-based comments (basically, standard #|..|# and #;, and Guile's extension #!...!#, as well as all #-syntax that does not actually yield a datum)
They are: 1. The term "#-based comment" refers to all # syntax that does not actually yield a datum when read in by the standard, s-expression parser of a particular implementation. For example, an implementation might define a #readoption(ignore-case), which changes some internal settings, but does not yield an actual datum. An implementation for scripting might want to ignore text after a #!. Item comments such as #; and multiline comments such as #| comment |# commonly used in Lisp implementations are also #-based comments. 2. A #-based comment found at the top-level (i.e. before finding any other item) at any indentation (including !-indentation) is completely ignored; in particular, it will not cause the reader to enter "indented-compatibility" mode under any circumstances, regardless of any indentation or lack thereof. 3. A #-based comment found as the first item on any sub-block line is treated the same as the SPLIT symbol. In particular, indentation is considered to end at the point at which the #-based comment is found. Also, any newlines and spaces inside the #-based comment are ignored. 4. A #-based comment found after the first item of any line is completely ignored. In particular, any newlines and spaces inside the #-based comment are ignored. Rules 3 and 4 together imply that the following: foo ! bar ! ! #| |# nitz Is equivalent to: foo ! bar ! ! \\ nitz Sincerely, AmkG ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Live Security Virtual Conference Exclusive live event will cover all the ways today's security and threat landscape has changed and how IT managers can respond. Discussions will include endpoint security, mobile security and the latest in malware threats. http://www.accelacomm.com/jaw/sfrnl04242012/114/50122263/ _______________________________________________ Readable-discuss mailing list Readable-discuss@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/readable-discuss
