Serif Normal Synem 17 is a bold, narrow, high contrast, italic, short x-height font.
Keywords: magazine, book text, editorial, headlines, quotations, classic, formal, literary, dramatic, compact setting, formal tone, editorial emphasis, classic readability, calligraphic, bracketed, crisp, lively, angled.
A sharply slanted serif with pronounced contrast between thick stems and hairline joins, giving strokes a crisp, engraved feel. Serifs are bracketed and relatively fine, with tapered terminals that keep counters open while maintaining a dense, dark texture. Proportions are compact with a modest x-height and narrow letterforms, and the italic construction shows calligraphic influence in the curved strokes and entry/exit points. The overall rhythm is tight and energetic, with strong diagonals in capitals and a distinctly editorial italic flow in text.
Works well for editorial settings where an italic serif is used as a primary voice: magazines, long-form features, and book typography, especially for emphasis, quotes, or lead-ins. It can also serve in compact headlines or subheads where a classical, high-contrast italic adds hierarchy and elegance. Best used at sizes where the hairlines and fine serifs remain clear.
The tone is traditional and authoritative, evoking book typography, newspapers, and academic publishing. Its strong slant and contrast add a hint of drama and sophistication, reading as refined rather than casual. The overall impression is confident and cultured, suited to serious or ceremonial messaging.
The design appears intended to provide a conventional text-serif foundation with an expressive, calligraphic italic flavor—optimized for compact setting and strong typographic emphasis. Its contrast and tight proportions suggest a focus on elegant economy of space while preserving a traditional, bookish tone.
In the sample text, the font maintains a consistent dark color and clear word shapes despite its compact width and fine details. Numerals and capitals feel sturdy and emphatic, while the lowercase carries most of the movement through pronounced italic forms and tapered joins.