in reply to Re^2: Dereferencing simple variable
in thread Dereferencing simple variable

putting the part of actual code you were talking about here will help in guiding you, also see perldsc

Vivek
-- In accordance with the prarabdha of each, the One whose function it is to ordain makes each to act. What will not happen will never happen, whatever effort one may put forth. And what will happen will not fail to happen, however much one may seek to prevent it. This is certain. The part of wisdom therefore is to stay quiet.