Ex Libris

In "What Is an Author?" (1969), Michel Foucault noted that ever since authors could be held responsible for what they write, their text has been viewed as a kind of private property. Consequently, the author, as owner of their text, leaves little room for the reader to develop their own interpretation. What then, can we do as readers to lay claim to our books? What should the designer as owner do?

Don't let Foucault fool you... it's easy: design your own book plate!

Book plates have been in use since as early as the 1450's so there is a convention or two to follow. Brush up on your Latin and dust off your family crest. Or a family motto will do. A variety of subject matters are appropriate, but some are more appropriate than others, such as: dragons, mythical creatures, dogs, musical instruments, trophies, landscapes, angels, children, naked women, or—books.