Gotta ++ tilly. I remember having some problems with anonymous hashes when I first started using them, but now I can't imagine not using them. Its much easier to store complex data. I use them all the time now - especially when I am handling several database records at a time.

I recommend looking at Section 1.3 of Advanced Perl Programming. It's on Nested Data Structures. Chapter 1 is a good starting point for info on references too. I just found this some basic info about Nested Data Structures at This Site

I also recommend using Data::Dumper: It allows you to dump your variables and it nicely formats nested Data Structures.

If you buy Advanced Perl Programming use the above link as PerlMonks gets some commission.