As a celebrated writer of no small renown, I’m often asked by those who would imitate my astonishing career trajectory what writing references I keep within easy reach of my Mac (apart, I presume, from the vast resources that reside in my head).

For a quick roundup of writing basics, it’s hard to beat Strunk and White’s The Elements of Style. Sure, it has its detractors (or, what we in the business call “stupid whining pedants”), but commandments like “be clear” and “omit needless words” are sorely needed these days.

If you’re looking for Elements, try to find a used copy of the second (1972) or third (1979) editions, both of which can be had for around $3. It’s the best investment a writer can make.

posted by: Aaron Bragg  |  category: the writing life  |  make a comment

A recent trip to Seattle offered up yet another encouraging ray of hope: that good architectural design can truly inspire. While the Seattle Public Library (a must-see, by the way) does indeed fit into this category, I’m referring to the Chapel of St. Ignatius. Located on the campus of Seattle University, this 1997 effort by Steven Holl Architects out of NYC is worth the side trip.

And speaking of chapels, if you’re ever in Portland, take time to visit the Marilyn Moyer Meditation Chapel (sometimes referred to as the Grotto Meditation Chapel). Designed by TVA Architects and completed in 1992, it’s equally impressive.

posted by: CK Anderson  |  category: architecture  |  comments(1)

In Character has been one of my favorite magazines of the past couple of years. An odd publication, it was published three times a year, each issue focusing on a particular “everyday virtue,” like modesty, compassion, and wisdom.

While the print version ended with the recent “humility” issue, all back issues—along with new content—can be read online. Free. To get a taste for what you can find there, check out this short essay that’s sure to raise the blood pressure of at least one of my college professors.

posted by: Aaron Bragg  |  category: random thoughts  |  make a comment

I’m a huge fan of Milton Glaser, one of America’s most influential designers. Now 81 years of age, Glaser continues to produce beautiful and relevant work. In 1975 he was asked to create a pro-bono logo for the New York Commerce Commission’s public relations campaign. It was intended to soften New York City’s crime-ridden and dirty reputation. He was given the slogan “I Love New York.” He quickly came up with a solution that was immediately approved by Bill Doyle, the assistant commissioner of commerce.

While doodling in a cab a week later he had a better idea, so he pleaded with Mr. Doyle to come by his studio and take a look at it. As Glaser recalls, Doyle first reaction was “Oh please! Forget it. Do you know how complicated it would be to approve it again?” Apparently Doyle agreed to take a peek at Glazer’s new logo and quietly took the sketch with him. Eventually the commission approved the new logo and the “I ♥ NY” symbol became an instant tourist favorite.

On February 25, 2010, Glaser was awarded the National Medal of Arts, the first graphic designer to be recognized as such. In President Obama’s introduction, Glaser was honored for “a lifetime devoted to improving the way people communicate through innovation in graphic design, and for memorable visual artifacts that challenge contemporary artists and delight all Americans.” And that’s exactly what Milton Glaser did 35 years ago.

posted by: CK Anderson  |  category: the design life  |  make a comment

In this, the first in an ongoing series devoted to shining the clear light of reason on bad English (that is to say, unpleasant writing and speaking, not the lame 1980s band), I draw your attention to one of the most heinous of practices: using nouns as verbs.

An example that really sets my teeth on edge is “reference”—you know, “Excuse me while I reference my notes,” or “We’ll need to reference our expertise in this proposal.” AAAUUUGGGHHH!!! Whatever happened to “refer to”?

Here’s why you should care: When you deliberately flout the quite reasonable rules of English syntax, you come across not as a refined and sophisticated raconteur, but as someone who simply doesn’t know any better.

posted by: Aaron Bragg  |  category: the writing life  |  make a comment

I’m a reader. Always have been. When I was a kid, while my friends were doing whatever it is normal kids do, I’d spend my Saturdays in the basement reading room at the John Steinbeck Library. Finding out as an adult that there are, in fact, people who don’t read was difficult for me to understand. You may as well have told me that there exist people who choose not to breathe.

It’s become an unassailable fact in the minds of many that not just some, but most people don’t read anymore. No time. No interest. Too much competition from the Internet, satellite television, and the golf course. While it’s certainly not the last word on the subject, this study begs to differ.

Perhaps the apocalypse is not yet upon us.

posted by: Aaron Bragg  |  category: random thoughts  |  make a comment

iNid climbing the front of her iMac

As I go about my day, working on design files, sorting through numerous emails, answering technical support questions, talking on the phone, etc., I wonder if life would be more satisfying staring out from the inside of an iMac vs staring at the iMac?

posted by: Shirlee Roberts-Downey  |  category: the design life  |  make a comment