I was not aware that this typeface arouses such a definitely unpleasant association. It is a simplified Gutenberg and was very common during the 19th and early 20th century. Also the ornament is not different from things you can find in Norwegian wood churches or Irish manuscripts. The intention was to do something nostalgic, inspired by the fact that Europe was back in its past before aviation during the past weekend. A strange experience in a time when every place is in reach and every country just hours away. Europe slowed down for a few days and had a chance to think about how dependent we are from jet planes. We considered whether all the flights we undertake are necessary at all. There was a break in our modern time because nature thumbed her nose on us.
By the way, fractured letters were forbidden from 1941 on, the reason the "Leader" gave was ridiculous. The truth was: Fractured letters could not be read in the occupied countries -- or people pretended they could not read them.
By the way, fractured letters were forbidden from 1941 on, the reason the "Leader" gave was ridiculous. The truth was: Fractured letters could not be read in the occupied countries -- or people pretended they could not read them.
4 comments:
As someone with a background in graphic design, I was familiar with the Fraktur typeface and not offended by it myself. Just saying.
Very interesting bit of reaction to a typeface. I can certainly understand the association with Hitler and the Third Reich as either are frequently printed in Gutenberg-like fonts. Like ArtSparker, I have a graphics and typography background so my personal response is perhaps a bit jaded. If you haven't seen it "helvetica" is a very interesting movie/documentary about the revolutionary type face of that name. Worth a view to understand how much goes into the design and choosing of typefaces.
I will try to see this documentary! Typeface is an incredibly interesting issue.
We also have to see it differenciated. What does a type stand for? There is ample use of Fraktur, even the Communist Manifesto was printed in this kind of type. It is no more "fashist" than the use of fork and knife during a meal. It just isn't quite that familiar for today's readers, especially in the new world. But you will also find it on English marmelade jars.
I felt the original had more impact somehow.
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