The discussion centers on the programming language JOVIAL, which is an acronym for "Jules Schwartz's Own Version of the International Algorithmic Language." Participants express surprise that JOVIAL is still in use, particularly by the military, despite its age, with some suggesting it may have become obsolete around 1965. There is curiosity about the current support and platforms for JOVIAL, as well as inquiries about the availability of resources or manuals, given its historical significance and continued military application. The conversation also touches on the legacy of ALGOL, the language from which JOVIAL derives, noting its advanced features and the challenges associated with its documentation.