Ask Jerry
Italics
Asked by Emma Ryan on November 16, 2020
Hi Jerry,
I understand Italics are out. Is it ever ok to use them now. For example recalling an old text message, recalling a conversation, recalling an argument or anything in the past that needs to be brought into the present , a character reading out a Eulogy or email etc.
If italics are completely out, how do you emphasize any of the above scenarios?
Many thanks
Jerry's Answer
The key is to set things apart consistently, Emma. Some publishers still use italics; most don't.
Here's how I set apart something like you cited. This is a double indent, once the paragraph has been written. It moves the whole thing to the right, including the opening indent. (It doesn't translate as well here, but you'll see that it works in Word.) Then the publisher is free to do with that copy whatever it wishes to match its style.