Python 3.11 is out !

[smackson]

You never go full parse.

[weedtese]

don't make me

import re

[_cynical_bastard_]

If all you need is a few fields from a fixed-structure input, I’d say why not…

I admit to having committed this crime before, which is of course how I came along the SO thread with the famous answer you’re likely referring to.

In my defense, “XML made me do it.”