Cannot install Lxml on Mac OS X 10.9

Preparation: Xcode and Command Tools

Before an adventurous lxml ride, let's gear up with Xcode Command Line Tools. Run:

xcode-select --install
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Oh, no! Paths messed up? Clean the slate with a reset:

sudo xcode-select --reset
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Troubleshooting: Permission and Linking Issues

Came across permission issues? Point these files to your user account. Homebrew directories are like dogs, they just need to know who's boss:

sudo chown -R $(whoami):admin /usr/local
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Next, let's link libraries. Forcibly, if brew link whines about being shy:

brew link libxml2 --force
brew link libxslt --force
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See, what Homebrew needs is a little encouragement sometimes.

Let's Get Isolated: The Magic of Virtual Environments

Isolation is not just for pandemic times, your Python virtual environments need it too. Encourage social distancing among your dependencies with:

python -m venv venv
source venv/bin/activate
pip install lxml
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Always remember: In virtual environments, we avoid sudo like spoilers.

Temporary plaque for stubborn problems

Stumbling upon the perennial 'libxml/xmlversion.h' file not found issue? Time for a temporary fix:

ln -s $(xcode-select -p)/include/libxml2/libxml /usr/local/include/libxml
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Remember, duct tape fixes everything, but check Homebrew's docs for a sustainable solution.

Advancing to expert mode

For those hard-to-please installation issues, meet your advanced toolkit:

Static Dependencies Installation

Use this to always stay linked, like childhood friends:

STATIC_DEPS=true pip install lxml
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Set Paths Manually

Dismiss your GPS and set paths manually for libxml2:

CPATH="/usr/include/libxml2"  # You should not copy-paste from the internet... except this time.
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Post-Xcode Update

Ensure handyman Developer Tools are still around post upgrade:

xcode-select --install
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Just like your ex, Xcode too might need some confirming after an update.

The Next Level: Advanced lxml Installs

Alternative Install: MacPorts

Not a Homebrew fan? Dunk your MacPorts in and brew lxml:

sudo port install py39-lxml  # MacPorts users do it in the port.
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Best Practices Adoption

Embrace conducting yourself better. Use virtualenv and avoid sudo for a cleaner, problem-free virtual life.

Update Checks

Updates are not just for bragging about console apps, they're remedial too. Keep checking.