I just came out of a session comparing scripting (but probably better described as dynamic) languages. Groovy, Ruby, Python and Scala went head to head in three rounds; desktop app, web app and freestyle. Whatever language you follow, the possibilities for use are awesome with excellent features in each language ecosystem. While each compile down to Java bytecode Groovy really does provide developers with the most natural integration, Ruby has awesome libraries, and Scala’s concurrent programming model is compelling (and will probably be one I will be following up). The diversity in this space is awesome and Java developers really should keep abreast of developments in this area. The ease with which web apps in particular are developed in all three leave traditional frameworks in the dust.