Pricklypear

Pricklypear is a web framework that integrates an interpreted Lisp environment with database-backed function storage. Users or their agents can write functions, which are saved as abstract syntax trees (ASTs) in a Postgres database and can be reloaded as needed. These functions are capable of rendering web pages, positioning Pricklypear as a tool for dynamic web application development.

The design emphasizes modularity and composability, with many functions rendering htmx partials. This approach allows for the creation of modular web components. Pricklypear includes s-expression wrappers for HTML and CSS, supporting a Lisp-based workflow for web development tasks. The system is described as multiuser, allowing multiple participants to interact with and modify the environment.

A notable aspect of Pricklypear is its compatibility with local agents using a REPL, and it has been demonstrated that a language model (LLM) can interact with the system to write functions, suggesting some openness to automation and AI-assisted development. The codebase is intended to be readable and is designed to be printed and studied, with commentary distinguishing between original and AI-generated content.

Pricklypear is presented as a powerful tool for small and medium businesses, particularly those interested in experimenting with Lisp-based web application logic and modular interface design.