Job Control Language

language, operating system (JCL) IBM's supremely rude

script language, used to control the execution of programs

in IBM OS/360's batch systems. JCL has a very fascist

syntax, and some versions will, for example, barf if two

spaces appear where it expects one.

Most programmers confronted with JCL simply copy a working

file (or card deck), changing the file names. Someone who

actually understands and generates unique JCL is regarded with

the mixed respect one gives to someone who memorises the phone

book. It is reported that hackers at IBM itself sometimes

sing "Who's the breeder of the crud that mangles you and me?

I-B-M, J-C-L, M-o-u-s-e" to the tune of the "Mickey Mouse

Club" theme to express their opinion of the beast.

As with COBOL, JCL is often used as an archetype of ugliness

even by those who haven't experienced it. However, no

self-respecting mainframe MVS programmer would admit

ignorance of JCL.

See also fear and loathing.

(1999-03-03)