Letters from the Hellbox is an irregular column from Martin McClellan on typographers.
Typographic titles
I was watching My Man Godfrey and was struck by the title sequence and its use of typography. Older films generally have the credits first, this one is no different in that respect, but the integration into the film is quite phenomenal — the camera pans across a cityscape, with the cast, crew and title, displayed as blinking signage. The film is now in the public domain, and available for viewing on Google video or download from the Internet Archive.
On a somewhat related note, I thought the title sequence for Bored to Death was quite well done. Although, it’s more in the vein of typography as illustration.
Update: Added graphics from two title sequences. Also thought I’d take a moment to mention Christian’s Movie Title Stills again, which I linked to earlier.
Barthleme’s syllabus
Donald Barthleme’s list of must-read literature. Can’t say I’ve read much on the list, but it seems like a good starting point on the way to becoming better read. Phil Gyford posted a full-text list of the books, which is probably a bit easy to print out and drag along with you.
Found typography
Lettering is a collection of found typography, signage and ephemera with a particular focus on the London Underground.
About coffee
15 Things worth knowing about coffee. Bullet points in finely illustrated form. I want some espresso now.
The Diary of Samuel Pepys
Pepys’ Diary is an online project to republish the diaries of Samuel Pepys. The site began in 2003, and posts a new entry every day. My introduction to the man came courtesy of Neal Stephenson’s Baroque Cycle.
Comic Serif
Comic Serif is a companion slab serif to the much maligned Comic Sans. It’s available for free from HVD fonts.
The Botany of Desire
PBS has posted a full copy of The Botany of Desire, as well as extras, for your viewing pleasure. The documentary examines the human relationship with four plants, apples, tulips, cannabis and potatoes, that evolved to satisfy our desires.
Baseball infographics
Flip Flop Fly Ball features loads of baseball related infographics. The game is a statistician’s wetdream and accordingly, makes for some great visuals.
Whiskerino
This is the last year of Whiskerino, an exercise in camaraderie, manliness, photography and general beard growing. The last time it occurred, I was travelling without a razor, already rocking a massive beard, and was unable to compete. Basically, you start on November 1st, clean shaven and don’t touch your razor or any other trimming implements until February 28th, making a full 120 days of uninhibited beard growth.
I will be uploading a daily photo to my profile on Whiskerino and occasionally to my flickr stream, if you feel like keeping track. I’m also planning on producing a book at the end of it, with each of the daily photos and a collage which may or may not be related to the day’s photo.