When it comes down to it, Hickey's talk does not even need to be referenced. The core of the peeve is that when the millionth "X is a simple library/tool/language for Y-ing" pitch is made, the question should be: On what OBJECTIVE basis is this simpler than the alternatives? (Because everyone thinks their own polished creations or preferred techniques are "simple" and so the word as typically used in pitches is close to meaningless).

Actually its incredibly simple.

See, I just did it and didn't have to mention Rich Hickey.

The new age variant is quoting the Tao Te Ching instead of Rich Hickey.

"Simple, like a block of uncarved wood."

Simple Block tm