Perl has advantages as a learning language for the 'active' learner.

This really resonated with me. I'm a programmer by trade, and have developed in at least 8 or 9 different languages over the years with varying degrees of success. I have found Perl to be the best language yet in which to quickly get something done ... for the 'active' learner, as g0n says, this utility of a language is essential. I've been taking some C++ courses lately, and it is amazing how much longer it takes me to do simple things ... I'm convinced it is not entirely because I am such an inept C++ developer. I think that Perl is well-suited to the temperament that views learning as a necessity to getting work done, not to contrast the 'active' learner unfairly with the kind of person who sees learning as an end in itself.