The mention of FORTRAN was in jest (partly, same as C++ it is still in use, especially in HPC so it is an option).

Yes, C++ has evolved but in my opinion not for the better. But that´s just me.

My main point was, and is, that if you´re looking to learn a new language with the aim to have very performant code there are other, and in my opinion better, alternatives beside c++ to look at.