Hi Guix,
Following a recent patch to an snapshot of an emacs package (emacs-mastodon), where latest stable (tagged) release dates back from a long time, the question of whether to send patches for non stable (tagged) versions is pertinent or not. Of course, the answer is clear: we only package stable. Guix manual (22.4.3 Version Numbers) clearly states that "We usually package only the latest version of a given free software project ... Occasionally, we package snapshots of upstream’s version control system (VCS) instead of formal releases. This should remain exceptional.". Fine with that. Now, regarding emacs-xyz packages, the situation is a bit ambiguous. We have (old?) (tagged) releases, as well as snapshots. What is the rule to follow when we contribute ? At what point in time do we consider we may submit patches for snapshots ? With which frequency ? Do we consider number or relevance of commits since latest version ? Do we base our decision on time elapsed ? Simply put, as for now, we have a mix of melpa-stable and melpa: when one may decide to forget stable and move forward to latest ? Of course, this is author’s role, but I’m wondering how subjective all of this is, and how this might impact quality of provided packages. Best, Cayetano
