The Elements of Typographic Style
version 3.2
by Robert Bringhurst
Hartley & Marks, 2008
Comments: It would be difficult to overstate the importance of typography in graphic design. The purpose of graphic design is by definition to communicate a message to an audience and the use of type almost always plays a key role in that mission. Consequently, a comprehensive understanding of typography and typesetting is essential for anyone serious about producing professional work in that field.
This book is probably the best place to begin for anyone committed to mastering typography. It has become something of classic in the design community and is widely regarded as one of the most important works on the subject. Bringhurst is an undisputed master of the topic and adeptly covers virtually every aspect, including the aesthetics of typeface selection, the mechanics of type layout and specification, historical perspectives on the evolution of typography, overviews of type foundries and designers, a glossary of characters and terms, and many other details. As one would expect, the book itself is a sumptuous specimen of fine typography and is its own best example of the merits of informed typographical practice.
Having hired, managed, and worked with numerous designers over my career, I've been amazed to find how much these skills have been neglected as the profession has evolved, particularly by novice designers. There are both academic and social reasons for this -- which is a lengthy topic in its own right -- but it remains important for designers to develop this knowledge in order to complete their professional skill set. Regardless of the aesthetic style of any graphic design project -- from elegant to deconstructive, or anywhere on that scale -- a thorough understanding of typography will always aid the designer. Even if the intent is to push the limits of convention, one should understand the practical implications of those choices. Familiarity with the wealth of information in this book will greatly help build that expert understanding. It has certainly had a powerful impact on my own relationship with the art and craft of typography.
Copy Notes: My first copy of this book was the first paperback edition purchased almost 20 years ago, but the edition reviewed is a new hardback copy of the third edition I recently obtained. There are numerous type specimens and illustrations throughout the book, and a sewn-in ribbon bookmark. Of course.
version 3.2
by Robert Bringhurst
Hartley & Marks, 2008
Comments: It would be difficult to overstate the importance of typography in graphic design. The purpose of graphic design is by definition to communicate a message to an audience and the use of type almost always plays a key role in that mission. Consequently, a comprehensive understanding of typography and typesetting is essential for anyone serious about producing professional work in that field.
This book is probably the best place to begin for anyone committed to mastering typography. It has become something of classic in the design community and is widely regarded as one of the most important works on the subject. Bringhurst is an undisputed master of the topic and adeptly covers virtually every aspect, including the aesthetics of typeface selection, the mechanics of type layout and specification, historical perspectives on the evolution of typography, overviews of type foundries and designers, a glossary of characters and terms, and many other details. As one would expect, the book itself is a sumptuous specimen of fine typography and is its own best example of the merits of informed typographical practice.
Having hired, managed, and worked with numerous designers over my career, I've been amazed to find how much these skills have been neglected as the profession has evolved, particularly by novice designers. There are both academic and social reasons for this -- which is a lengthy topic in its own right -- but it remains important for designers to develop this knowledge in order to complete their professional skill set. Regardless of the aesthetic style of any graphic design project -- from elegant to deconstructive, or anywhere on that scale -- a thorough understanding of typography will always aid the designer. Even if the intent is to push the limits of convention, one should understand the practical implications of those choices. Familiarity with the wealth of information in this book will greatly help build that expert understanding. It has certainly had a powerful impact on my own relationship with the art and craft of typography.
Copy Notes: My first copy of this book was the first paperback edition purchased almost 20 years ago, but the edition reviewed is a new hardback copy of the third edition I recently obtained. There are numerous type specimens and illustrations throughout the book, and a sewn-in ribbon bookmark. Of course.
