I use italic for book titles, as is proper per style guides. And, occasionally, I use italic for emphasis. But, rarely and in dialogue. I think bold should be reserved for headings and subheads. I never underline.
On Friday evening, I pulled out the box and plastic zippered bag that are Christmas. It took about 7 seconds to decorate. After putting up my mother's two trees, this is not a bad thing. I have a How The Grinch Stole Christmas! Coloring Book. Of course, I would never take a crayon to it. It is the whole she-bang for $2.75. A great book. I am in happy agreement with the use of italic in The Grinch. The Whos and Who-ville. His use of capitalization is to be praised.
Then he got an idea!
An awful idea!
THE GRINCH
GOT A WONDERFUL, AWFUL IDEA!
In class on Wednesday, I sent in my third piece to be reviewed for this week. It contains a flashback in italic. It is almost 3/4 of a page. I was torn about this section, keeping it in italic or not. There are other flashbacks in the piece, none of which are as lengthy or in italic. The first section was an international flashback. It made sense at the time to use that style. The other flashbacks are U.S. based. I never really decided what to do and handed in as is, partially to obtain feedback on this stylistic matter. I know I will get an earful. The poor professor.
5 comments:
Your column about the use of italics reminds me of a book I once read.
Originally published in Germany, this book is printed in green and red ink, depending upon whether the passage is taking place in our world or the fantasy world described by the book.
However, paperback editions do not use color ink; just black. To differentiate between the two worlds, a regular face and italic face are used. As you might imagine, the paperback makes generous use of italics.
Your article about italics reminded me of this! For me, the fine hardcover edition is the only way to go!
How festive to use red and green ink. That is really the only calling card of a hardback book—you can decorate it and use finery. Many only read hardback and many only read paperback. I waffle. Mostly, I buy paperback that is not on newsprint.
I once read a wonderful short piece entitled "Georgiana" that made wonderful use of italics. I was left wanting for more. The blood in the mouth from the crusty bread. Wow.
Passing on the car is completely justified because the italics would stare at you every time you found yourself in the car. It would eventually drive you mad. Who wants numbers on their dashboard anyway?
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