15:41:48adlaithere is one specific dissertation, pertaining to computer programming in general, although it investigates one common lisp compiler along with a few compilers of other languages
15:42:06adlaiand it might, quite possibly, help you understand why exactly beach's work is so important.
3:21:30beachI started watching a talk by Robert Virding entitled "On Language Design", and I think the next time someone suggests a revision of the Common Lisp standard, I'll point them to that presentation.