The following is stated:
“Sublime Text may be downloaded and evaluated for free, however a license must be purchased for continued use.”
The above can be interpreted in many ways, it can be evaluated for free for what period? Even though Sublime does not impose any time limit I would like to know if I can use Sublime Text for free forever?
“Use this for free forever” sounds like “continued use”, which according to the statement, would seem to indicate that you must purchase a license.
If you’re asking this question, then you already know the answer; once you’ve decided the software fits your needs, you’re honor-bound to pay before continuing use.
Sublime Text is maintained by just two developers, it’s unethical to deny them compensation just because Sublime Text’s paywall is customer-friendly.