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2.3.1 Inserting Characters

In Hemlock, you can insert characters with graphic representations by typing the corresponding key-event which you normally generate with the obvious keyboard key. You can only insert characters whose codes correspond to ASCII codes. To insert those without graphic representations, use Quoted Insert.

Command: Self Insert ¶

Self Insert inserts into the buffer the character corresponding to the key-event typed to invoke the command. This command is normally bound to all such key-events Space. If a prefix argument is supplied, then this inserts the character that many times.

Command: New Line (bound to Return) ¶

This command, which has roughly the same effect as inserting a Newline, is used to move onto a new blank line. If there are at least two blank lines beneath the current one then Return cleans off any whitespace on the next line and uses it, instead of inserting a newline. This behavior is desirable when inserting in the middle of text, because the bottom half of the screen does not scroll down each time New Line is used.

Command: Quoted Insert (bound to C-q) ¶

Many key-events have corresponding ASCII characters, but these key-events are bound to commands other than Self Insert. Sometimes they are otherwise encumbered such as with C-g. Quoted Insert prompts for a key-event, without any command interpretation semantics, and inserts the corresponding character. If the appropriate character has some code other than an ASCII code, this will beep and abort the command. A common use for this command is inserting a Formfeed by typing C-q C-l. If a prefix argument is supplied, then the character is inserted that many times.

Command: Open Line (bound to C-o) ¶

This command inserts a newline into the buffer without moving the point. This command may also be given a prefix argument to insert a number of newlines, thus opening up some room to work in the middle of a screen of text. See also Delete Blank Lines.