also says this syntax is compatible with python which is not really true. if you have this in python: { key: "value", dr_nic: "The Comedian", ttl: 42 } python will expect there to be a variable called 'key', one called 'dr_nic', and one called 'ttl'. If you intend to do d['ttl'] you'll need to create a hash using a literal string
You don't necessarily have to create a hash using a literal string. You can also do this: dict( key="value", dr_nic="The Comedian", ttl=42 ) ...but that is a bit different syntax.
I always do in such way. And I will continue even if it's a bit slower =)