Python: Essential Reference, Third Edition

Abstract Object Layer

The functions in Tables 27.4 through 27.9 are used to manipulate objects from C, much in the same manner as from the interpreter. All the functions in this section that return an int return -1 if an error occurs. Likewise, functions that return a PyObject * return NULL on failure. Note that an “error” in this context is not the same as the false result of a test. For instance, the PyNumber_Check(PyObject *obj) function returns 0 if obj is not a number, but this isn’t the same as an error. Finally, unless otherwise noted, all functions in this section that return a PyObject * return ownership with the object. It’s up to the caller to decrement the reference count of the returned object if necessary.

Table 27.4. Objects

Type ...