A Typographic Quest, Number Five, ‘Typographic Contrast' – Westvaco, Carl Dair, 1967

In the fifth booklet in the series Carl Dair examines the various forms of contrast in typography. He begins by comparing typography with music, noting that typography can often express the same kinds of moods and harmonies as musical compositions. Dair even suggests that one can guess a designers’ taste in music by the nature of their design. He briefly compares designers with composers, a subject that has also been explored by others.

Leaving music, Dair moves on to look at how to achieve typographic contrast using; size, weight, form, structure, texture, colour and direction. He also explores non-typographic contrast, such as isolating elements and choosing the right paper. Coming full circle, he returns to his music analogy beginning with the ‘typographic notes’ (letters), followed by the ‘chords’ (the combination of two or more contrasts), and ‘rhythm’ (intervals of space).

In some respects, this may be the strongest volume in the series. Dair’s arguments are well thought out and clearly illustrated. His musical metaphors ring true regardless if you are a ‘classical’ or ‘pop’ typographer.