It has aspects of both. I would say it’s a holistic approach to the subject, like a liberal arts degree in typography condensed into a book.
From the Foreword:
“This book has therefore grown into something more than a short manual of typographic etiquette. It is the fruit of a lot of long walks in the wilderness of letters: in part a pocket field guide to the living wonders that are found there, and in part a meditation on the ecological principles, survival techniques and ethics that apply.”
This is the Bible for anyone whose work involves using typography.
Reading this book and keeping it always handy paired with a good understanding of grid systems can will make the difference between stellar and amateur design.
I'm surprised it has such few upvotes!
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