2. From some of your syntax struggles, I'm starting to
> wonder whether it would be best to turn the
> .matplotlibrc file into a proper python one. I followed
> the same approach with ipython of having a custom
> syntax, and now I regret it. It appears easier
> initially, but in the long term it's clunky (at least
> for ipython). For ipython's next major revision, I plan
> on dumping its own rc format and allowing users to
> define their configuration using plain python syntax.
> Just some thoughts.
I had the same thought this morning - you start with a simple config
file, key/value pairs, but as you add features you find yourself
writing a little primitive mini-language. Why ham-string yourself,
when you already have an elegant, simple, powerful language available
- python!
When I get some more time tomorrow I'll take a close look at Abraham's
code, and whether it might make more sense to move this section, or
the who rc file, into python. That Abraham was able to factor out /
modularize most of the toolbar code will certainly pave the way.
Abraham, had you given this approach any thought in the midst of your
work?
Thanks!
JDH