Eulogy for the Em Dash
This article is a tribute to the em dash, a punctuation mark that has been used for centuries but is now being overused by algorithms. The author discusses the history, evolution, and significance of the em dash in typography.
Why it matters
This article highlights the importance of understanding the history and evolution of typography, and the need for AI systems to respect the artistic and expressive nature of punctuation marks like the em dash.
Key Points
- 1The em dash was once a symbol of typographic elegance and resistance
- 2The em dash has taken on many different forms and interpretations in various typefaces
- 3AI algorithms use the em dash indiscriminately, without considering the context and intention
- 4The em dash is a companion to those who love the art of typography and letter design
Details
The article traces the history of the em dash, which was born in the workshops of printers and cast in lead. It was a foundational unit of measure in typography, named after the em, the width of the uppercase M. The em dash was particularly important in the writings of Emily Dickinson, whose original manuscripts used dashes extensively. However, the article explains that the em dash has never had a single form, and its width, weight, and character vary greatly depending on the typeface. While some typefaces use a flat, mechanical em dash, others allow it to breathe within the sentence. The article laments that AI algorithms use the em dash indiscriminately, without considering the context and intention, and without understanding the nuances of this punctuation mark.
No comments yet
Be the first to comment