The distance of leverage
But I profoundly do not want to be merely an operator or code reviewer: taking a backseat to the fun and interesting work. I want to drive, immerse myself in craft, play in the orchestra, and solve complex puzzles. I want to remain a programmer, a craftsperson.
Like Simon, I don’t understand the appeal of being an operator rather than a programmer. There’s leverage, sure … but remember that leverage happens through a lever: which necessarily dulls your senses, pushes you back from where the work is happening. I’d rather be up close, because (1) it’s more fun, and (2) I care about the details.
What’s the appeal of coding at a distance, for so many people? I’ve come to believe that a large part of it, probably subconscious, is simply the experience of having someone —