How to Write a Language?

Allen Wyma talks with Andrew Kelley, creator of Zig. Zig is a general-purpose programming language and toolchain for maintaining robust, optimal, and reusable software.

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Timestamps

• [@0:51] - Andrew’s introduction
• [@2:55] - Rust vs Zig
• [@5:27] - What is undefined behavior (UB) and what causes it?
• [@11:37] - How does Zig deal with undefined behavior?
• [@16:09] - How well does Zig work in production?
• [@22:46] - Deeper dive into Andrew’s programming background
• [@33:35] - Zig’s mission statement and what they’re doing as a non-profit
• [@37:38] - Zig’s update release management
• [@40:06] - Andrew’s OkCupid project
• [@42:20] - Andrew’s preparations and motivations for making a language
• [@46:11] - Zig using LLVM
• [@49:12] - What’s next for Zig?
• [@54:20] - Parting thoughts

Other Resources

• Zig’s Github
• Andrew’s Github

Credits

Intro Theme: Aerocity

Audio Editing: Plangora

Hosting Infrastructure: Jon Gjengset

Show Notes: Plangora

Hosts: Allen Wyma