Geeky Delights: Fun and Odd Uses for BSD/Linux
Welcome to The Distrowrite Project's blog! Today, we're taking you on a journey through the quirky, sometimes strange, often amusing, and always fascinating world of BSD/Linux/independent distributions. As we delve into some of the more unconventional uses and features of these robust operating systems, you'll not only learn about their versatility but also pick up some fun trivia to share at your next tech meet-up.
1. The Art of Cow-Say
One of the more whimsical programs you can find in many UNIX-like systems, including Linux distributions, is `cowsay`. This delightful utility allows you to create ASCII art of a cow saying anything you want. The true charm lies in its customizability; you can change the cow to various other creatures or characters by adding different "cowfiles". Imagine having a Tux penguin or a dragon deliver your system messages!
To install `cowsay` on a Debian-based system, you would run:
sudo apt-get install cowsay |
Then, to use it:
cowsay "Welcome to the Distrowrite Project!" |
2. Toilet (No, Not That Kind)
In the realm of making text-based interfaces more exciting, the `toilet` program stands out. It turns regular text into ASCII art banners with various styles and effects. This can be particularly amusing (and sometimes useful) in scripts where you want to draw attention to certain messages.
To install and use `toilet`:
sudo apt-get install toilet |
3. Fortune Cookies with a Twist
If you're looking for a little wisdom or humour at your terminal, the `fortune` command is your go-to. This utility displays random quotes, jokes, or proverbs whenever called. For an extra dose of fun, combine it with `cowsay`:
sudo apt-get install fortune |
Now, your day is made just a bit brighter with a cow delivering your fortune!
4. Sl: The Train of Shame
A fun twist on command-line typos is the `sl` command. It’s a playful take on when users mistype `ls` (list directory contents) as `sl`. Instead of displaying an error, it runs an animation of a steam locomotive across your terminal screen. It’s a light-hearted reminder to slow down and enjoy the journey!
To experience `sl`:
5. Rev: Reflecting on Reversed Text
The `rev` command is a simple yet quirky tool that reverses the characters of each line of input. While it might not have many practical applications, it can be a fun addition to your scripting arsenal, especially for puzzles or obfuscating text.
Example usage:
Output:
6. Hidden Anagrams with An
Sometimes, discovering hidden meanings can be a fun distraction. The `an` program generates anagrams from given words or phrases. This can be particularly entertaining if you’re looking for a creative way to find new project names or just pass some time.
To install and use `an`:
7. Cal: Calendars from Any Year
The `cal` command displays a simple calendar for any specified month and year. It’s an unassuming yet handy tool, especially for quickly checking dates. But it also supports a few fun options. For example, you can display calendars from the 19th century or even check when the next Friday the 13th will occur.
Example usage:
This will show you the September 1752 calendar, which includes the peculiar missing dates due to the adoption of the Gregorian calendar.
If you get
Install `ncal`:
sudo apt-get install ncal |
Then run the `cal` command again.
8. Figlet: Fancy ASCII Art Text
`figlet` is another text-to-ASCII-art program like `toilet`. It can transform any text into a variety of font styles in the terminal. This is not only useful for making your scripts visually engaging but also for creating stylish text banners.
To install and use `figlet`:
sudo apt-get install figlet |
9. Yes: Infinite Affirmations
The `yes` command repeatedly outputs a string until stopped. While it’s commonly used for confirming all prompts in a script automatically, it can also be a source of amusement. For instance, imagine having your terminal endlessly shower you with compliments or affirmations!
Example usage:
10. Watch Star Wars in ASCII
One of the most mind-blowing and delightful Easter eggs on UNIX-like systems is the ability to watch the original Star Wars movie in ASCII art. Thanks to the creative efforts of a few dedicated programmers, this feat can be achieved through the `telnet` command.
To install and use `telnet`:
sudo apt-get install telnet |
To experience this:
telnet towel.blinkenlights.nl |
Conclusion
BSD/Linux/independent distributions are a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of the open-source community. Beyond their powerful capabilities for running servers, developing software, or managing systems, these operating systems harbour a trove of quirky, amusing, and downright strange utilities and features that can make your computing experience more enjoyable.
Note: All ten tips above were tested and confirmed to work in Debian 12 stable.
We hope you enjoyed this light-hearted exploration into the stranger side of BSD/Linux/independent distributions. Stay curious and keep exploring!
Disclaimer
The above-mentioned commands and utilities are legitimate and available in most UNIX-like operating systems. However, they are provided for entertainment and educational purposes. Use them responsibly and ensure you understand their behaviour to avoid unintended consequences.
Source
- cowsay - Wikipedia
- Toilet
- fortune (Unix) - Wikipedia
- Sl
- rev(1): reverse lines of file/files - Linux man page
- An
- cal(1) - Linux manual page
- Figlet
- yes(1): output string repeatedly until killed - Linux man page
- Watch Star Wars In Linux Terminal via Telnet
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