I think you've pointed out the distinction many miss when talking about simplicity, which results in talking past each other: simplicity for the user and simpl

I think you've pointed out the distinction many miss when talking about simplicity, which results in talking past each other: simplicity for the user and simplicity for the compiler writer are totally different things. Java is simpler for the user but more complex for the implementer, and C is more complex for the user but simpler for the implementer.