A Joy That Is Being Lost

4 hours ago

The author’s programming journey began at age 12 in 1977 with an Apple II, inspired by the Apple II Basic Programming Manual.
Early programming required extreme precision, as even minor errors could cause failure, teaching valuable lessons in responsiveness and craftsmanship.
Over time, programming became easier and more abstract, shifting focus from low-level details to engineering and technology problems.
The rise of agentic coding tools has made software development more accessible and productive, but it eliminates the hands-on craft and precise control the author cherished.
The author misses the specific joy of solving intricate puzzles, feeling a ‘click’ when code works, and holding the entire machine in mind, which agentic tools do not require.
While embracing the benefits of agentic coding, the author mourns the loss of a personal, craft-based pleasure, hoping future programmers still experience that deep engagement.

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