I don't understand your complaint. There are mature regex libraries for C found with the obvious Google search. Source code included. Why would you not just pic

I don't understand your complaint. There are mature regex libraries for C found with the obvious Google search. Source code included. Why would you not just pick and consume one, as you would in Python? Overall though I think what you may be seeing is simply the stratification of software development; what began in the 70s and 80s has come to fruition. There are different planes of existence, like thermoclines in the oceans. A developer may (and is likely to) live in one forever, without crossing above or below. Each has its purpose. While I wrote my own database and rendering engines in the 80s as part of applications development, I wouldn't dream of it today unless there was a very, very good reason. Same goes for network stacks. Or math libraries. Memory managers. Etc. Sure, coming from the Python ecosystem, you will feel as though there is a shortage of auto-pilot-like assistance, but you must realize you are in a very different world now - Embedded work is (frequently) focused on predictability, responsiveness, efficiency, and even moreso with realtime work. You are the engineer in charge, and all the safe boundaries and cushions of the interpreted language world are now missing. Want to REALLY feel naked? Drop down to assembly on any platform and try to emit a simple "hello world." For those who have never done so, it's a humbling experience but rewarding. Remember that C was designed as a "universal assembly language", easily portable to different architectures and close (enough) to the metal so the programmer can have full control over the machine. Best analogy I've heard: C is like a chainsaw - used carelessly one can cause enormous damage and destruction, but in the hands of a skilled/experienced craftsman, very clever solutions are possible.