The document discusses alternative programming languages that can be used on the Java Virtual Machine (JVM) besides Java. It outlines some limitations of Java and reasons for considering other options. Several dynamic and functional languages that run on the JVM are described, including Groovy, JRuby, Scala, and JavaScript via Rhino. The document recommends trying Groovy first due to its easy integration with Java and availability of frameworks. It emphasizes that using other JVM languages does not require replacing Java entirely and encourages giving them a try without dropping Java.