"In her 1916 book How to write for the movies, Louella O. Parsons offers what might be the earliest version of Rule 16 of the Subtitler’s Code, about the dangers of the too-long #subtitle: 1/4
https://comment.org/subtleties/

You cannot be prodigal in your language and interpose any unnecessary flowery phrases; footage is too precious. Neither must you express yourself in the stilted words of a child just learning to talk. 2/4

As an apt illustration of the too long subtitle we might give:
“It is surely the inevitable will of God that has brought this affliction upon us. We must in this adversity bow our heads to His commands.” 3/4

That is all very well if you have one thousand feet of film at your disposal to give to your subtitle, but when you have a limited amount of footage why not be sensible and merely say:
“God’s will be done.” 4/4

@carol_osullivan, the history of subtitle guidelines is fascinating!

@carol_osullivan, a friend observed the female presence in the early days of #subtitling. I have the impression that it was a profession dominated by men. What you think?