sourcecode
Anonymous Monk
<br><br><CODE>
#!/usr/bin/perl
$a=5; # Here we make a new variable called "a" to use as a simple loop counter.
# Now, we'll create some arrays, and start them off with some fresh elements.
@group=("swarm","heap","load","gang","squad","bunch","cluster","family","team"); # This is an array, called group. Arrays are designated with in at-symbol (@) prefix.
@adjective=("crack-smoking","supple","furious","sexy","hyperactive","inquisitive","hot","old","crazy");
@noun=("midgets","Cuban refugees","clowns","bitches","programmers","babies","dogs","hep-cats","apes");
while($a>0) # This is a simple while-loop construct. It uses the same syntax as Java, or C,
{ # with one exception...You need to enclose even singular expressions in braces.
$index=rand(9); # This generates a random integer between 0 and 9, and stores it in $index
print( "\nMr. T says, \"Daaaaammmn!!! A @group[$index]"); # First part of the line is printed here, in this statement.
$index=rand(9); # A new number is generated, and stored in $index.
print( " of @adjective[$index]"); # The n'th element ($index) of the array is printed here.
$index=rand(9); # A new random number is generated and stored in $index.
print( " @noun[$index] just ate my balls!!\""); # The end of the line is printed.
$a--; # Our loop counter is decremented here, and the loop iterates.
}
print("\n\n"); # Toss in a few newlines to keep things pretty, and we're all done!
</CODE>
For those new to Perl, this script uses the ever-popular
"Ate My Balls" joke to demonstrate simple concepts like
variable assignments, while() loops, printing, simple
array manipulation, and the use of Perl's rand() function.
<br>Consider this Chapter 1 in your quest for Perl skillz.
I will post more simple scripts like these as I continue
to strengthen my "rabid sloth" style of Perl-Fu.
Perl-Fu For Beginners
Bowie J. Poag <poag@u.arizona.edu
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