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Re: Can't load .el files


From: Thien-Thi Nguyen
Subject: Re: Can't load .el files
Date: Fri, 22 Apr 2005 18:23:19 +0200
User-agent: Gnus/5.11 (Gnus v5.11) Emacs/22.0.50 (gnu/linux)

JS <d44sf@44ada.com> writes:

> Could you be a bit more specific
> I have no idea how to fix the problem.

one way is to figure out how to fix the problem
generally, then apply those techniques to this problem.

debugging your ~/.emacs is like debugging anything else
that accumulates past a threshold of desirable behavior:
revert to pristine and add piecemeal until the threshold
is met.  that which you have added last is where you then
focus your attention.

(unlike "the solution to bad speech is more speech", the
solution to bad ~/.emacs is usually not more ~/.emacs.)

this paring down phase (described above) can be done in
various ways, but is important because focus is critical
for the next phase: application of the Scientific Method,
the bull-dozer of all problem solvers (according to Pirsig).

applying the scientific method doesn't mean you have to
give up the superstitious method (i.e., casting strange
spells and muttering arcane incantations), which is your
current approach, from what i've gathered skimming this
thread.  however, if you can place the superstition on
hold for a bit, it may come back and delight you later
as some kind of aesthetically pleasing spiritual tinge
accompanying the muscle-memory of practice.  (or perhaps
not -- ymmv.)

anyway, good luck w/ your quest for commenting!

thi


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