#Here's what I tried but it doesnt do what I want my($text2) = "test_\1_\2_\3"; my($text3) = q{'$text2'}; print "$text3\n"; #### $zoom_factor_entry = $draw_bar -> Entry ( "-width" => 2, "-textvariable" => \$zoom_step, ) -> pack( "-side" => 'left', "-padx" => 3);