Typographic translation of a newspaper into a book focused on polarisation in Dutch media.
ABOUT THE BOOK
“Language creates connection, but it can also divide.
In newspapers and media, groups are often separated by seemingly innocent words like "them" and "us." Narratives arise in which the other is positioned against us. Gradually, invisible lines begin to form between groups, viewpoints, and people. This phenomenon is called polarisation, and it is present everywhere. Polarisation deepens divisions, creates enemies, and sets groups against each other. It causes us to listen less and judge more, making mutual understanding harder to achieve. And yet, there is another side to it: polarisation can reveal differences, bring injustices to light, and introduce new perspectives. But that only happens if we choose to listen and to connect.
“Back to You and Me” consists of two separate book contents. Each one tells a different story, based on newspaper texts. Through this, I aim to show how language subtly draws dividing lines. The way the books are bound or rather how they are not bound symbolises how perspectives in our society often remain disconnected. It reflects the gap that forms when we don’t look beyond our own point of view. I believe we need to return to “I” and “you”: to see each other again as individuals, apart from generalisations. How do we tell the whole story? The answer lies in our own hands”.
[Translation of letter written for ‘terug naar jij en ik’]