Optimization hinders evolution. Everything should be built top-down, except the first time. Simplicity does not precede complexity, but follows it.

In English every word can be verbed.

We are on the verge: Today our program proved Fermat's next-to-last theorem.

Every program has (at least) two purposes: the one for which it was written and another for which it wasn't.

Every reader should ask himself periodically “Toward what end, toward what end?”—but do not ask it too often lest you pass up the fun of programming for the constipation of bittersweet philosophy.

Computer Science is embarrassed by the computer.

Adapting old programs to fit new machines usually means adapting new machines to behave like old ones.