The Tao of Programming

Written in the style of ancient Chinese wisdom literature, this short book presents programming through a series of brief verses, parables and sayings. Its tone is playful, poking fun at the habits, rituals and ego of software development while still treating the craft with seriousness. The author draws comparisons between good code and the balance and simplicity associated with Taoist thought, suggesting that the best programmers work with the grain of their tools rather than against it. Readers who have spent time with a keyboard and a deadline will likely recognize many of the scenes. It is a quick, witty read rather than a manual, aimed at anyone who has ever wondered what it means to write code well.