Cython

Chapter 13. Cython in Context

The most important thing in the programming language is the name. A language will not succeed without a good name. I have recently invented a very good name and now I am looking for a suitable language.

— D. Knuth

In this last chapter, now that we have invested blood, sweat, and carpal tunnel syndrome in learning the depth and breadth of the Cython language, it is worthwhile to consider Cython in relation to other projects. As we have seen, Cython does many things well: it brings optional static typing to the Python language, it compiles Python to C, and it enables easy interoperability between Python, C, and C++. The greater Python world is diverse, and it is no surprise that many projects—new and old— overlap with Cython in some way. How does Cython match up, and what makes it relevant in the midst of these other options? When embarking on a new Python project, why should we use Cython?

Cython Versus Project X

Several Python projects fall under the category of “Python compiler.” Each translates Python to another language (typically a lower-level natively compiled language) for some benefit. Some, like Cython, target C or C++; others target JavaScript; still others LLVM IR. Some are traditional in that they work ahead of time, while others are just-in-time compilers.

Cython’s predecessor, Pyrex, is firmly in the traditional ahead-of-time compiler camp, and Cython inherits much of its design. But Cython has extended to acquire just-in-time compilation features, ...