simonjrogers ([info]simonjrogers) wrote,
@ 2008-01-24 12:24:00
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Entry tags:map of the month, profantasy

Map of the Month
Mike Oliver created this map using the basic tools from CC3 for fantasy writer Victoria Kerrigan. Read how the map was created here.


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[info]daver2323
2008-01-24 01:05 pm UTC (link)
I recognise those mountains! :-)


dave

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[info]simonjrogers
2008-01-24 01:07 pm UTC (link)
I seem to remember you went through a great deal of pain to make them!

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(Anonymous)
2008-01-24 04:16 pm UTC (link)
I ower you a vote of thanks, then, Dave. Wish I had the artistic ability to do something like it!

Mike Oliver

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I Have Become a Font Snob
[info]zorkfox
2008-01-25 07:33 am UTC (link)
As someone who works in publishing, I cannot be the only one to detest fonts like the one displayed above. Yes, yes, they're very fancy, but they're not exactly easy to read are they? I mean, don't get me wrong: it's nothing like as bad as the headers in Vampire: the Requiem where you practically have to use a magnifying glass, or those in Mage: the Awakening that are not only florid and scripty, but printed in a metallic ink! Gutenberg must even now be spinning in his grave.

(Rant mode, cancel!)

I'm not saying anyone should resort to Arial (God forbid), but something with a little less flounce makes maps and books so much easier to digest. I'm also not trying to call into question the merits of the map itself, which is clearly of superior workmanship and dedication to craft and detail. Three cheers!

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Re: I Have Become a Font Snob
(Anonymous)
2008-01-30 03:42 pm UTC (link)
Like most snobs you display a lack of knowledge of the factors at work in the environment you speak of and the term "Philistine" comes to mind.

Basically a resort to "Arial", "Times New Roman" or "Courier" is exactly what you are advocating. Of course, the publishing industry is now so conservative for fear of failure, that little of any ground-breaking novelty gets through. Readers are subjected to the Arials, Times New Romans and Couriers of the world of prose. Now at least I know why - to make it easier for the readers.

Mike

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Stylish map
(Anonymous)
2008-01-31 07:48 pm UTC (link)
This is a very good map. Stylish and with a lot of mood. Grimur

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Re: I Have Become a Font Snob
[info]zorkfox
2008-02-01 07:57 am UTC (link)
First, the distasteful bits.

If I were advocating the usage of Arial, Times New Roman, or Courier, I would have used words to that effect. Like most zealots you display a lack of knowledge of the factors at work in the environment of logic. You would do better to respond to what I wrote than what you think I meant, especially since you have no idea what I do for a living.

And I resent being labeled a Philistine, no matter how obliquely, for expressing an opinion, however strongly.

Now, the more civilized conversation

What kind of ground do you really think is left to be broken in the publishing industry as far as legible typefaces? If you want ground-braking novelty, work up your layout or hire an artist, don't mangle your letters. How is ease for the reader interpreted as conservatism? I suppose it would be better to set everything in Dragonwyck or Ponderosa. If you're not publishing for your readers, why are you publishing? The term "self-gratification" comes to mind. (Oops, I guess there was a little distastefulness left after all.)

I know you are responsible for the map Simon put on display. I admire the map and your skill in making it. I read through your description of how you created it, and I am impressed that you not only went to such lengths, but took the time to describe your efforts for people who are struggling with Campaign Cartographer. As someone with only meager graphics skills, I am dependent on people like you for your tutorials and explanations.

What would be the problem with labeling it more legibly? Surely a map's purpose is to convey information, especially if it's meant to aid the author in her writing. Old maps (the look of which people are usually trying to achieve when making a fantasy map) are illegible because handwriting was just as bad in the past as it is now, and no one had access to Myriad or Warnock. :)

Simon: I apologize for hijacking your post.
Mike: I apologize if I offended you. I realize my reply was perhaps a bit overwrought, but I see poor typeface decisions every day and sometimes it is difficult to contain my... enthusiasm.

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Re: I Have Become a Font Snob
(Anonymous)
2008-02-14 04:06 am UTC (link)
I have to agree with zorfox, and I am the furthest thing from a font snob. That text is just hard to read.

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