Perl or Python? Help!

[r3dm4n]

Ok, I've been researching this topic for quite some time now.

I've been basically through every Google search result that deals with python and perl in detailed comparison, but never have I posted on a forum about it.

I've seen the TIOBE report but that's mostly based on hype, right? I don't care about which is the most talked about, I want a language that's functional and gets the job done and that will continue to be supported well into the future!

I'm dead set on learning Perl or Python - which is what's killing me.
Note: I'm more software oriented as opposed to sysadmin work, but I'd like a multipurpose language that is adept at both.

My Needs:

• General purpose scripting / programming
• Most popular (not as in cool but as in employability)
• Small apps somtimes utilizing a GUI.
• Embedding
• Help me learn more about *NIX mechanisms
• Overall fun but still having a dept in syntax

My thoughts -
Python:
I've had much experience in OOP (C++, VB, Java), and I've read (and experience in what little code I've written) that Python is much better in this regard. Function and class creation seems much more intuitive to me than in Perl 5. The syntax overall is much cleaner and more structured and therefore easier to read. It's future seems bright with Google's backing (since Guido works there) and the reliability of their release cycle (e.g. Py3k).
** The forced white space and lack of C based braces and semicolons are kind of off putting and makes it seem almost "kiddy" to me. What are your thoughts on this? I realize it makes code easier to read, but at what price?

Perl
Perl **appears** to be a much more mature language. Perl is much different than what I'm used to in syntax and thinking patterns, but is that a bad thing? I think Perl has a better lesson to teach me about different ways to program, but that comes at a steep learning curve and an uncertain future - namely Perl 6 and how it will be received.


So I guess what I'm asking is: Which has the best future? I believe, Perl is at the moment more employable (??), but will that change? With Python's corporate backing and Perl 6 close to vaporware, would my time best be spent learning Python? Will Perl 6 be a home-run with its vast improvements? Also consider i want a more general purpose language that allows me to hack up quick progs.

[technossomy]

Both are about equal considering your needs and it is likely you will be able to apply your skills in one language by learning the other. Equally so, you will unlikely garner an objective response from other forum members.

[ghostdog74]

OP has got his answer from another forum.