Google then goes on to explain that “a given set of statements or instructions may be protected, but the protection does not extend to the method of operation or system — the programming language — by which they are understood by the computer.” Google is arguing that a computer language is “inherently a utilitarian, nonprotectable means by which computers operate” and merely provides the structure, selection and organization of the software.

via Oracle thinks you can copyright a programming language, Google disagrees | The Verge.