title: how close a.lower() in python to a->lower() in C++
body: <p>Since variables point to objects in python, I guess, and it is a reference. Suppose <code>a</code> is a string and can I fully interpret <code>a.lower()</code> in python as a replacement for C/C++ <code>a-&gt;lower()</code> on a pointer to <code>char*</code>? I know these are different languages, but trying to relate similar concepts so that it is easier to understand.</p>
  
  <p>Edit: Suppose I have a class that implements a string that has a lower method.</p>