The reading from “Live Coding: A User’s Manual” by Alan F. Blackwell and others presents live coding not just as a technical practice, but as a profound cultural and philosophical phenomenon. This perspective invites a deeper exploration of live coding beyond its surface-level description. The reluctance to strictly define live coding, as expressed by David Ogborn, suggests that its essence lies in its fluidity and resistance to rigid categorization. This resistance is not merely a characteristic of live coding; it is a statement about the nature of creativity and interaction in the digital age.
Live coding challenges conventional notions of software development, which is typically seen as a methodical, behind-the-scenes process. By bringing the act of coding into the public sphere, live coding transforms programming into a performative art. This transformation raises questions about the relationship between the coder and the audience, the nature of software as a creative medium, and the role of improvisation in technological practices. The act of coding in real-time, in front of an audience, demystifies the process, making technology more accessible and understandable. It bridges the gap between the enigmatic world of code and the tangible human experience.
Furthermore, the concept of “thinking in public” as a form of live coding is intriguing. It suggests a vulnerability and openness in the creative process, where the coder exposes their thought process, errors, and revisions in real-time. This transparency is a stark contrast to the often opaque nature of software development. It invites the audience to engage with the process of creation, blurring the lines between creator and spectator. The text also touches upon the idea of live coding as a way to “unthink” conventional engineering practices. This notion aligns with Viktor Shklovsky’s concept of defamiliarization, where familiar objects or practices are made strange to enhance perception. In the context of live coding, this means viewing code not just as a tool for building software, but as a medium for artistic expression and exploration. It encourages a reevaluation of the roles of creator and audience, the nature of software as an artistic medium, and the potential for improvisation and spontaneity in technological practices. Live coding is not just about making software live; it’s about bringing life to the process of software creation.