l123

Modern terminal spreadsheet inspired by Lotus 1-2-3

TLDR

Launch the spreadsheet in an empty workbook

$ l123

Open an existing workbook

$ l123 [path/to/financials.xlsx]

Display current settings

$ l123 config

Create a sample configuration file

$ l123 config --init

Open the slash menu inside the application

$ /

SYNOPSIS

l123 [file]l123 config [--init]

l123 is a terminal spreadsheet that recreates the keyboard-driven workflow of Lotus 1-2-3 Release 3.4a (1993) on top of a modern formula engine and native .xlsx round-trip support. It targets users who want the speed and clarity of the slash menu, three-line control panel, and mode-driven editing of classic 1-2-3.The application supports 3D workbooks with multiple sheets, named ranges, and a formula syntax that mirrors 1-2-3 (for example @SUM(A1..A5)). Files can be read and written as .xlsx, with CSV import/export and planned read-only .wk3 import.Charts include line, bar, XY, stack, pie, HLCO, and mixed types. Output can be printed to ASCII, PDF, or line-printer formats. Find and replace operates across both formulas and labels.

PARAMETERS

config

Display the active configuration. With --init, write a sample configuration file to disk.

--init

Used with config to create a starter configuration file.

CONFIGURATION

Run l123 config --init to scaffold a configuration file. l123 config prints the active configuration. Settings cover key bindings, color themes, default file paths, and chart defaults.

MODES

$ READY   Default cell navigation
LABEL   Entering text content
VALUE   Entering numeric or formula
EDIT    Modifying current cell
POINT   Selecting a range
MENU    Slash menu open

CAVEATS

Functional fidelity to Lotus 1-2-3 is the goal, not pixel-perfect visual nostalgia. .wk3 import is read-only and partially implemented. Some 1-2-3 macros and add-ins are not supported.

HISTORY

l123 is a Rust project that revives the Lotus 1-2-3 interaction model for modern terminals. It draws inspiration from Lotus 1-2-3, originally released by Lotus Development Corporation in 1983, which dominated PC spreadsheets through the late 1980s before being overtaken by Microsoft Excel.