In mid-2023, the author created a web app using Elixir as a learning exercise and encountered some unexpected challenges with the language. The error handling in Elixir combines exception-style errors and tuple returns, which can be confusing when they intersect. The sequencing and chaining of these error handling mechanisms is not as intuitive as in Rust. Additionally, working with Elixir’s with statement can be problematic when nesting other blocks inside it. In terms of state management, Elixir allows for global mutable state, but it is often hidden behind function calls and abstraction layers. Importing modules in Elixir has several different options, which can be overwhelming. The author suggests that the language could benefit from clearer documentation on these topics. The use of macros and DSLs in Elixir libraries can also be challenging due to poorly defined semantics and implicit assumptions about code structure. While Ecto, the database query builder, has some rough edges, it is generally fast and flexible. Hot code reloading in Elixir can be inconsistent, and error handling in the language is not as straightforward as using Rust’s Result type. Overall, the author appreciates the fault-tolerant nature of Elixir/OTP and sees it as a powerful tool for building robust systems.
https://wiki.alopex.li/ElixirNitpicks