Like New York Times, The Washington Post has one of the most memorable wordmarks in the news industry. As a news agency of a long history of almost 100 years, The Washington Post enjoys a public image of great reliability. This gothic and old English-like wordmark reminds people of its long history which helps them trust its reputation. This old English like logo also reminds people of some classic novels written in old times. It fits the image of a news agency, which runs the business in writing industry.
Visa changed its logo in 2006. The company simply capitalizes all the letters and made it all in deep blue. The capitalized letters in slightly italic typeface is very clear and easy to remember. Deep blue color gives people an impression of profession and business. The yellow represents the richness. As a credit card company, it easily builds an image of profession, richness and simplicity by its logo.
My Comments on classmates’ blogs:
I like your analysis of the Washington Post wordmark. The bold and official looking typeface is from the same family as the typeface found on a diploma which does in fact give it the very legitimate and historic as well as official feel. It lets the reader know that it has a long and proud reputation and that it is true in both its purpose and journalistic pursuits.
Your observations about the Visa word mark seem to be accurate as well. However, I think that there is one more important detail that the typeface seems to imply. You mentioned that the italicized text contributes to recognition. I would argue that it also contributes to motion. The little yellow wing and the italicized text suggest that Visa can help you fly through the daily transactions of everyday life.