Discussion Questions

"The Crystal Goblet" is an essay using a crystal goblet as a metaphor for good typography. It was originally published in 1929 by Beatrice Warde, who used the masculine pseudonym "Paul Grandjean" at that time. The piece was later published under her own name in 1957. Warde adhered to the philosophy that the best design was transparent design. In her essay, Warde asks the reader to choose a crystal or a gold goblet for the sake of tasting a wine. Based on a person's choice, she will know whether that person is a connoiseur of wine. To read her essay, visit http://www.coe.unco.edu/Typography/Sections/CrystalGoblet/index.htm. Discuss what transparent design means for the typographer.