Typography as a decision, not decoration

Why the font matters

Typography is the first layer of interface the reader sees. Before they even read a sentence, the eye has already judged the rhythm, the weight, the character. If the typeface is “neutral” (Inter, Helvetica, system), the text feels generic - regardless of what it actually says.

On the other hand, a typeface that’s too characterful starts to compete with the content. It becomes mannered. It shouts.

Three typefaces, three roles

This blog deliberately uses three typefaces:

1. Fraunces - a variable serif with a SOFT axis that lets you dial warmth into the letters. Display, body, drop caps, italics.
2. IBM Plex Sans - UI labels, small caps, navigation. Stays in the background, doesn’t get in the content’s way.
3. IBM Plex Mono - chapter numbering, metadata, “13 of 15.” Tabular numerals. Mechanical, but not aggressive.

How it shapes reading

When you set font-variation-settings: 'opsz' 144 on a title, the letters automatically become more delicate, more book-like. When you drop down to 'opsz' 14 on body text, the contrasts tighten and the letter turns more “workmanlike.” It’s a difference most readers won’t notice consciously - but they’ll feel it as eye strain after twenty minutes of reading.

That’s the point: good typography isn’t there to impress. It’s there to disappear.