Sunday June 27, 2004 JavaOne: Hidden Gem
I have been to ever JavaOne, and each year the first event for me has been the Fireside Chat for JavaOne Alumni. This is involves a group of Sun's foremost Java professionals, and audience and an open microphone. Today it's James Gosling, Rob Gingell, Graham Hamilton and Tim Lindholm, and both the questions and the answers are deep and insightful.
What's notable is the relaxation that the absence of journalists brings. The four laugh together, are willing to express their doubts about things. One questioner, a university professor, asks why a Java language was implemented in a way inconsistent with good OO practice and Gosling declines to answer, making clear he totally agrees but was outvoted by others when the spec was written. In reply to a question about SWT Hamilton clearly expresses his scepticism (should be a hot panel on Wednesday)
Chatting later with Amy Fowler (tech lead on the wonderful JDNC) it's clear that the Fireside Chat is not widely recognised for the gem it is. I, like the rest of the audience, felt privileged to be able to be included in such a lucid and intimate discussion; it was worth rushing my connection at LAX to be there!
Posted by webmink
( Jun 27 2004, 10:54:48 PM PDT )
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