The video is a work session with Xah Lee on coding in Wolfram Language, focusing on updating his "Visual Dictionary of Special Plane Curves" (0:26-0:35).
He begins by trying to find and organize old notebook files (1:20-2:23), discussing the process of loading packages (15:08) and troubleshooting issues with the Wolfram Language (11:35).
Key updates and discussions include:
Updating images: Xah updates an old, low-resolution image of a cardioid (8:08) to a higher-resolution version, noting the significant difference in file size due to advancements in internet speed over 30 years (18:14-18:36).
Wolfram Language packages: He explains how to access and download his Wolfram Language packages, which contain code for plotting various plane curves (9:39-10:51).
Text and image embedding: Xah demonstrates how to embed mathematical formulas and text within images using Wolfram Language, showcasing its capabilities for combinatorics and geometry (37:01-39:57).
Critique of Unix and related tools: He strongly criticizes Unix, C, Vim, and TeX (TikZ/PGF) as "diseases" or "cult phenomena" (48:09-50:58, 55:59-56:06), arguing that they promote outdated and brainless practices. He references the Unix Haters Handbook (58:30) and views his work as a lifelong fight against the "Unix cult" (59:34-1:06:02).
American sports commentary: Xah expresses his dislike for American football (Super Bowl) and basketball, describing them as "brainless" sports that emphasize brute strength or height rather than skill or intellect (21:44-23:08, 46:18-47:52).