How can I learn Perl or Python?

However, the boundary between scripting languages and regular programming languages tends to be vague, and is blurring ever more with the emergence of new languages and integrations in this fast-changing area. In some scripting languages, an experienced programmer can accomplish a good deal of optimization if they choose. And in general, it is possible to write a script in any language (including C or assembly language). This is not recommended, however, for scripting languages whose interpreters are to be marketed, such as languages for macros or for web development.