Simple queries aren't any easier with ORM, that's the point of sqlc, you write the SQL and then call it as a function. There's no extra abstraction or added steps on top.

Repeating portions of sql isnt really an issue for me either, it's the business end of the database, you want it all there in one location, spreading it around in a composible fashion is just one abstraction too far. I know SQL, I don't want to learn anything else on top.

I guess you talk from only a Go perspective where you don't know any good ORM libraries. Other languages have quite convenient ORMs. Some allows even auto migrations, creating migration SQL for your.

I did a quick look at GORM. And it's a way easier and safer to use for simple cases.