Good type against all odds

Good type often surprises us with delightful surprises, even in the most unexpected places. These moments showcase the importance of typography and the craftsmanship behind creating visually appealing and functional designs.

When displays update line by line, starting from the top, it can create a slanted appearance. While we typically associate italics with a right-leaning slant, the direction can be reversed without any inherent difference. This realization highlights the value of understanding typography and the cultural norms surrounding it.

In the world of typography, little choices can make a big impact. For example, an icon of a stadium cleverly uses the constraints of a 5×7 pixel font display to create a delightful representation. Similarly, someone added decoration and removed line height to create a fascinating vertical ligature, demonstrating how small changes can produce striking results.

Obliques, the slanted versions of typefaces, are another area where typography can surprise us. An example shows a thick and slightly oversized NOT, where the intentional slanting of the text is appreciated over simpler alternatives like underlining. The most impressive example is a three-dimensional underline on an old typesetting machine, which could very well be an intentional Easter egg.

Typography extends beyond traditional digital interfaces, as seen on a computer keyboard with hyphenation and an old-fashioned contraction. These unexpected details add charm and personality to the design.

In conclusion, good type against all odds showcases the hidden beauty and creativity found in typography. By paying attention to the details and understanding the craft behind it, we can discover delightful moments that enrich our visual experiences.