This sounds a lot like what Paul Graham discussed at this article. Sounds like your employer is playing in the 'safe zone' and does not want to risk losing his job. Personally, i think your employer is unreasonable. I would find another job if that is an option, as trying to get such people to change their opinion after they have been persuaded by such FUD is very hard to do. But also realize that i am unemployed at the moment and will be going back to school next Fall for a Master's in Comp Sci (hence - i am getting out of the 'real world' for a little while).

I truly wish you the best, if you can hang on to that job and use Perl in your own spare time, then do so - if you really have to use Perl - seek another employer (but don't just quit!).

jeffa

Consider this advice as a last resort.