EXAMPLE 56
In which horizontal lines predominate
It is not always possible to follow out in every detail the requirements of proportion. Architects must sacrifice much in the interests of utility and in deference to the wishes of their clients. Printers must do likewise, but as a rule they travel farther from true art principles than do architects. Consider the contrasting proportions of the structures in Examples [54] and [57]. In Example [54] notice that the openings have been made to conform to the general proportions, and that vertical lines have been multiplied to emphasize narrowness and hight. As a contrast, in Example [57] observe the width of the openings; how it blends with the general proportion of this structure. Now to ascertain that typography parallels architecture compare Example [53] with 54, and [56] with 57.
EXAMPLE 59
EXAMPLE 60
The type-faces of these two examples are not in proportion with the pages
An exaggerated idea of the relation of lines to proportion is furnished by Examples [62] (see insert) and [63]. The vertical lines of Example [62] run with the length of the page as smoothly as a canoe floating down stream. The horizontal lines of Example [63] are irritating in their disregard of proportion. For the eye to take in at a glance both the page lines running vertically and the rules running horizontally is as difficult as watching a three-ring circus. Examples [59] and [60] also illustrate this point.
I have prepared in Example [58] (see insert) a page in which not only are ornament, type-face and page-design in proportion, but the characteristics of the ornament are reflected in the border, and the tone is uniform.
Irregularity of form is valuable in breaking monotony, and in some forms of art may be essential, but as contained in Example [61] this feature is inharmonious. Before experimenting with variety or becoming agitated about monotony the typographer should perfect himself in the things that make for regularity. When he learns to set a page that is harmonious and in proportion then it may be well to introduce irregularity—in homeopathic doses.