How to Call a Python Script from Perl

Integrating Python scripts into Perl applications can be a powerful way to leverage the strengths of both languages. Whether you need to use Python’s rich ecosystem of libraries or execute complex data processing tasks, calling Python from Perl is simpler than you might think. In this guide, we’ll explore the most efficient methods to achieve this.

Method 1: Using the `system` Function

The simplest way to call a Python script from Perl is by using Perl’s built-in system function. This method executes the Python script as a shell command.

system("python script.py arg1 arg2");

Pros:

Easy to implement.
Works on all platforms where Python and Perl are installed.

Cons:

Limited control over the execution environment.
No direct way to capture Python’s output in Perl.

Capturing Output

To capture the output of the Python script, use backticks or the qx operator:

my $output = `python script.py arg1 arg2`;

Method 2: Using the `Inline::Python` Module

For more advanced integration, the Inline::Python module allows you to embed Python code directly in Perl scripts. This is the most popular and widely used method for seamless interoperability.

use Inline Python => <<'END_OF_PYTHON_CODE';
def greet(name):
    return f"Hello, {name}!"
END_OF_PYTHON_CODE

my $message = greet("Perl");
print "$message\n";

Pros:

Directly call Python functions from Perl.
Efficient data exchange between languages.

Cons:

Requires installing the Inline::Python module.
May have compatibility issues with newer Python versions.

Installing `Inline::Python`

Install the module using CPAN:

cpan Inline::Python

Method 3: Using IPC (Inter-Process Communication)

For more complex interactions, you can use IPC mechanisms like pipes or sockets to communicate between Perl and Python processes.

Example Using Pipes

Here’s how to read Python’s output in Perl using pipes:

open(my $pipe, "python script.py |") or die "Failed: $!";
while (<$pipe>) {
    print "Python says: $_";
}
close($pipe);

Best Practices

Error Handling: Always check the exit status of the Python script.
Path Management: Ensure the Python interpreter is in your system’s PATH.
Data Exchange: Use JSON or CSV for structured data transfer between Perl and Python.

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