I’ve been a sysadmin for nearly a decade, a frontend web designer for much longer (I still have a book on all the exciting changes in HTML4), and while I can very easily learn, compose, and use many markup and scripting languages, I have always struggled with full-on programming languages, and I’m not exactly sure why. Part of it, I think, is that most tutorials and online learning resources are focused on novices who don’t have any existing grasp on general programming concepts and syntax, but I’m already pretty deep into Bash. To the extent that I am sure I have crossed the thresholds you list, and used quite long and complex Bash scripts for tasks that would almost certainly be easier in Python. I’d love to find A Bash Scripter’s Guide To Python or something similar—an intermediate course that assumes that I already know about variables, operators, functions, Boolean expressions, et al. I have searched for this a few times, but it’s full of keywords that makes searching Google difficult.

So this has inspired me to Ask HN, I’m getting ready to post it with a reference to this discussion, but thought I’d start here: does anyone know of a good resource for learning Python (or Go, Perl…any good small project/scripting/solo hacking languages) that’s tailored for folks who already have a good foundation in shell scripting, markup, config/infra automation, build tools, etc.? I’m open to books, web-based tutorials, apps, or just good examples for studying.

I’m open to the notion that I simply haven’t put in the work, and powered through the doldrums of novice tutorials far enough to get to where the meaty stuff is. Worst case, I’m a big fan of taking courses at the local community college for my own edification, absent any specific degree program or professional certification. It would still necessitate a lot of remedial/redundant steps, but I can always help others through those chapters while filling in any of my own gaps. Day-to-day, I generally work alone, but I find such things are easier with others to help motivate and focus my efforts. Perhaps I have answered my own question, but even still, I appreciate any advice/recommendations folks might have.