@cwebber @emacsen @Shufei

I think it's tricky to simplify basic lisp syntax since using some overt markers of sexp boundaries like ()s makes the code wear its structure on its sleeve, at the small cost of Lots of Irritating Superfluous Parentheses for those who aren't used to looking at lisp syntax. Removing a clear, consistent marker in favour of a combination of meaningful whitespace and other boundary markers (:, .) at least for me doesn't feel like a cognitive win for the writer.

I also feel obligated to repost...
lisp-parens.jpg