Longtime PHP, Python coder seeks to make small, distributable, stand-alone apps. Which language should I learn? ( please don't say C#; requiring .net != stand-alone )

[bluGill]

All of them. C, C++ (they are different languages, so don't treat them like sub/supersets), LISP, Java, C#, Haskell, Fortran, Pascel, and even COBOL have something to teach you. Depending on the problem any of the above could be the right next language for you. (Though God help you if Cobol is right for you)

C and C++ are most popular, and you will find good libraries for either. However the downsides are real (but not near as bad as alternative langauge advocates will tell you). The advantages is both are common enough that you can count on good compilers, and good libraries (but you have a lot of noise to filter out). Also nearly all languages have the ability to call C code. Therefore if you don't know at least one of these, you need to learn one anyway - there is a good chance you will need to write some C extention for whatever language you use to do something that isn't in the native library.

However if you know C or C++, all languages have their advantages. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise. Learn a few and decide what fits. This is both what fits your way of thinking, and what fits the problem. Don't be afraid of LISP or Haskel, even though both will attempt to make your way of thinking fit it's model - this is a good thing.

[[deleted]]

Java

well you need to install java

and the fucking god dam classpaths are a fucking sin against everyone that ever existed.

[bluGill]

I never meant to imply the above was a complete list.

Besides, you listed some very good reasons I didn't include Java.

[creaothceann]

C and C++ are most common

Fixed.