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“A man who would letterspace lower case would steal sheep, Frederic Goudy liked to say. If this wisdom needs updating, it is chiefly to add that a woman who would letterspace lower case would steal sheep as well .” quote by Robert Bringhurst
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“A man who would letterspace lower case would steal sheep, Frederic Goudy liked to say. If this wisdom needs updating, it is chiefly to add that a woman who would letterspace lower case would steal sheep as well .”

Robert Bringhurst

About This Quote

Source Book: The Elements of Typographic Style by Robert Bringhurst, 1992

The quote humorously suggests that using lowercase spacing is a sign of theft, extending the joke to both genders.

In simple terms: Lowercase spacing is jokingly called stealing sheep, for men and women.

Key Takeaway

Avoid unnecessary typographic quirks.

Themes

humor typography gender equality language play tradition

Mood

playful thoughtful

Type

humorous educational

When to use this quote

  • design work
  • editing
  • teaching typography

Key Concepts

typographic norms social commentary linguistic humor

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you think typographic choices affect meaning?
  • How can humor improve design discussions?
A Different Perspective

The joke may trivialize serious typographic standards.

3.9 out of 5 (8 ratings)

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