In answer to your first question, yes, named intermediate variables are in fact alises to the list elements (which means you need to watch for modifying constants).
Second question. Yes, Perl 6 gets named parameters, and the ability to truly parse subs as builtins (except perhaps the current print FILEHANDLE LIST semantics). Check out the Apocylypses.
Cheers,Light a man a fire, he's warm for a day. Catch a man on fire, and he's warm for the rest of his life. - Terry Pratchet
Update: Alright, my question doesn't quite answer your second question. I'm sorry, I got confused on what you meant by "pass by name". :-( I just sent a message asking for clarification to the Perl 6 language group.
In reply to Re: Thoughts on the magicality of @_ and $_
by erikharrison
in thread Thoughts on the magicality of @_ and $_
by rinceWind
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