"C programming is a craft that takes years to perfect. A reasonably sharp person can learn the basics of
C quite quickly. But it takes much longer to master the nuances of the language and to write enough
programs, and enough different programs, to become an expert. In natural language terms, this is the
difference between being able to order a cup of coffee in Paris, and (on the Metro) being able to tell a
native Parisienne where to get off." The behaviour of this quote from the beginning of Linden's book is, strictly speaking, undefined. I interpreted it as being able to give instructions to a native Parisian, in order to find the nearest red-light district.
"where to get off" has at least three interpretations---the one you note, one in which you insulte the Parisienne (why a Parisienne? Why not the English word, which has the advantage of being gender-neutral, "Parisian"?), and the (presumably) intended interpretation, what exit to use.
"why a Parisienne? Why not the English word, which has the advantage of being gender-neutral, "Parisian"?" I believe I did use the term Parisian....
I could have used the even more offensive (joke) term "parisite".
