Demystifying magic: high-level low-level programming (original) (raw)

This paper explores the balance between abstraction and low-level programming in systems software, arguing for high-level programming languages that retain performance and low-level access. It critiques traditional approaches like enhancing C/C++ syntax and practicalities of interfacing with low-level languages, advocating a framework that enables low-level coding within a high-level language while containing its use to reduce complexity and maintain safety. The discussion utilizes historical parallels and presents distinct strategies for implementing low-level features in high-level languages.