Today, I would like to introduce “The Work of Creating Characters,” written by Osamu Torinoumi.

This book is written by the author, as a typeface designer, who has brought Hiragino typeface, Yu typeface series, etc. to the world that many people see on a daily basis. Rather than a technical manual that explains “how to create typefaces” through specific steps and techniques, this book is more like a collection of essays that chronicles the author’s approach to and philosophy of craftsmanship, centered on his background and interactions with the people he has met throughout his career.

In the first half, the author recounts his childhood interests, gap years to study for entrance exams, anecdotes from university days, and reading experiences, as well as life in the scenery from Mt. Chokai in his hometown of Yamagata, offering a careful description of his personality. In the middle section that follows, he recounts memorable interactions with people he met through his work in typeface design, leading to the author’s thoughts on his ideal typeface in the final section.

As there is a saying, “handwriting reflects a person’s character,” I realized that a typeface is not something that is created by mere advances in tools and techniques, but something that strongly reflects the personality of its creator. More than anything, it strongly conveys a deep love and sincerity in the work of creating characters. This book is recommended not only for those who are interested in characters, but also for everyone involved in craftsmanship.

Book Information:
“The Work of Creating Characters”
Author: Osamu Torinoumi
Publisher: Shobunsha

Purchase Information: Amazon
https://www.amazon.co.jp/文字を作る仕事-鳥海-修/dp/4794969287

(KT)