An engineer who coined the term "mothlamp problem" describes it as a type of project that appeals to a specific type of person but requires solving extremely difficult technical challenges with questionable practical utility, such as building custom programming languages or static analysis tools. The author reflects on pursuing such projects throughout his career, arguing that repeatedly tackling ambitious visions—even if left unfinished—develops the skill of dreaming and turning ideas into reality.
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An engineer who coined the term "mothlamp problem" describes it as a type of project that appeals to a specific type of person but requires solving extremely difficult technical challenges with questionable practical utility, such as building custom programming languages or static analysis tools. The author reflects on pursuing such projects throughout his career, arguing that repeatedly tackling ambitious visions—even if left unfinished—develops the skill of dreaming and turning ideas into reality.