> This doesn't really address the original issue though, that it's far from
> obvious how to easily and correctly script psql.
That is another interesting argument. I understood that the issue was 
having to type these options, but now it is also to remember which one are 
relevant and wanted, which is a little different and more justifiable as 
an option.
On that account, ISTM that '|' as a field separator is debatable, that 
pager should be turned off... and maybe a few other things.
-- 
Fabien.