I don't think your example backs up your point about it being easier on the eyes. This would also work: "$foo bar baz" Since there's a space after foo, th

I don't think your example backs up your point about it being easier on the eyes. This would also work: "$foo bar baz" Since there's a space after foo, the braces don't actually do anything and thus _can_ be eliminated. Your other points make a decent argument for _not_ eliminating them even though you can, but removing extra characters makes it much easier to read.