How can I create a Word document using Python?

Question

I'd like to create a Word document using Python, however, I want to re-use as much of my existing document-creation code as possible. I am currently using an XSLT to generate an HTML file that I programatically convert to a PDF file. However, my client is now requesting that the same document be made available in Word (.doc) format.

So far, I haven't had much luck finding any solutions to this problem. Is anyone aware of an open source library (or *gulp* a proprietary solution) that may help resolve this issue?

NOTE: All possible solutions must run on Linux. I believe this eliminates pywin32.

Answer 1

A couple ways you can create Word documents using Python:

• Use COM automation to create a document using the MS Word object model (using pywin32). http://python.net/crew/pirx/spam7/
• Automate OpenOffice using Python: http://wiki.services.openoffice.org/wiki/Python
• If rtf format is OK, use the PyRTF library: http://pyrtf.sourceforge.net/

EDIT:

Since COM is out of the question, I suggest the following (inspired by @kcrumley's answer):

Using the UNO library to automate Open Office from python, open the HTML file in OOWriter, then save as .doc.

EDIT2:

There is now a pure Python python-docx project that looks nice (I have not used it).