Susam Pal Interview: Computing, Lisp, And Mathematics

Dive into the insightful interview with Susam Pal, a renowned figure in the computing world, as he discusses his journey, passions, and philosophies on programming, mathematics, and more. This comprehensive conversation, originally featured on Lobsters, offers a unique glimpse into Pal's mind and his approach to problem-solving and knowledge acquisition.

Introduction to Susam Pal's Lobsters Interview

In this engaging discussion, Susam Pal delves into a wide array of topics, ranging from his early experiences with computing to his profound love for Lisp, Emacs, and mathematics. The interview, conducted by @veqq from the Lobsters community, explores Pal's unique perspective on computing, his methods for learning and exploration, and his thoughts on software design and development. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the interview, highlighting key takeaways and insights for programmers, mathematicians, and anyone interested in the intersection of technology and thought.

The interview, initially published on Lobsters, has been archived by Pal on his personal website, ensuring its accessibility for future readers. The content has been thoughtfully organized into sections, making it easier to navigate and delve into specific areas of interest. Pal's responses are rich with detail and reflect his deep understanding of the subjects discussed, making this interview a valuable resource for anyone seeking to broaden their knowledge and perspective.

Early Computing Experiences and the Discovery of Lisp

Susam Pal's computing journey began with the Logo programming language, an experience that profoundly shaped his understanding of computation and problem-solving. The ability to manipulate a two-dimensional world using code ignited a passion that would guide his future endeavors. Pal vividly recalls his early programming days, often working with limited access to computers, spending hours writing code on paper and testing it mentally. This disciplined approach instilled in him a deep understanding of the fundamentals of programming.

The discovery of Lisp was a pivotal moment in Pal's career. During a long layover at an airport in 2007, he decided to dedicate his time to learning Common Lisp. Attracted by its simplicity and the fact that the entire language could be built from a small set of special forms, Pal immersed himself in Lisp programming. This marked the beginning of his extensive use of Lisp for personal projects, including his popular mathematics pastebin and the static site generator for his website. His preference for SBCL these days further showcases his commitment to robust and efficient Lisp implementations.

His introduction to Emacs came through his exploration of Common Lisp. The Superior Lisp Interaction Mode for Emacs (SLIME) was highly recommended, leading Pal to discover the power and flexibility of Emacs as a development environment. Initially using Vim as his primary editor, Pal gradually transitioned to Emacs as he became more proficient in Emacs Lisp. Today, Emacs is not just his primary editor but also his comprehensive computing environment, showcasing his mastery of the tool and its capabilities.

The Intertwined Love for Lisp, Emacs, and Mathematics

The connection between Lisp, Emacs, and mathematics is a recurring theme in Pal's work and philosophy. His affection for mathematics dates back to his childhood, driven by the elegance and rigor of mathematical proofs. Pal's ability to derive complex results from first principles has shaped his approach to problem-solving in all domains.

An illustrative example of this is his journey into number theory. While studying the RSA cryptosystem, Pal encountered the Euler totient function and its properties. His ability to derive the formula for

φ(pq) from scratch, using the inclusion-exclusion principle, exemplifies his deep understanding and intuitive grasp of mathematical concepts. This experience underscores his approach to learning: by actively engaging with the material and deriving results independently, he solidifies his understanding and appreciation for the subject matter. Such instances highlight the strong synergy between his mathematical prowess and his programming endeavors.

His active involvement in Emacs Lisp programming further cements the link between these three domains. Many of Pal's software tools are Emacs Lisp functions, designed to automate repetitive tasks and enhance his text editing and task management experience. This practical application of programming skills, combined with a strong foundation in mathematical principles, showcases the holistic approach Pal brings to his work.

Computing for Fun: Exploration and Sharing

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