Spontaneous
• Makes the most of time
• Gets things done
• Active
• Mover and shaker
• Quick thinker and learner
Speedy Gonzalez: Too Fast
If a writer’s speed is too fast, he or she can be
• impulsive
• impatient
• careless
• superficial
• hasty
As you would suspect, a writer whose speed is moderate and who has a well-paced release of energy is generally stable and takes things in stride.
Putting the Pressure On
Did you ever get a note in which the writing is so dark and deep you can see and feel the imprint with your fingertips on the back of the page? That’s an example of heavy writing pressure.
As previously mentioned, pressure is produced by two factors: the pressure against the pen point, which is called primary pressure; and the grip the writer has around the pen, which is called secondary pressure and is the basis for pastose writing. To check for pressure, turn the paper over and see how much the writing makes indentations on that page.
The writing surface plays a part in pressure, too. If you write on a paper placed on a wooden desk or table, you’ll demonstrate less pressure than if that same page was placed on a pad or softer surface.
The Felt-Tipped Pen
Felt-tipped pens (such as the Flair) show virtually no pressure against the page, making handwriting difficult to analyze. The pattern created by a felt-tipped pen is a consistent brushlike stroke.
People who use felt-tipped pens often prefer a thick stroke, which is a sign of sensuality.
PEN POINT Don’t Hold the Pen Against the Writer
Every now and then, you’ll get a bum pen that blots ink (think leaky ballpoint) or discharges ink in a way that creates a fat or almost smearing stroke (think fountain pen). These indicators are more reflections of the pen’s personality than of the writer’s! When examining a handwriting sample, be mindful of this discrepancy—if the ink blots or smears are consistent throughout, it’s the fault of the pen, not the writer, and should not be interpreted as a negative character trait.
Color and Discharge of Ink
If the ink is pale, the writer displays weak emotional energy. He may be cold, superficial, or overly sensitive. If the ink is uneven in discharge, her emotional and physical state may be inconsistent.
Normal Pressure
Characteristics to look for: moderate ink color and slight indentation.
Qualities
• Vitality
• Maturity
• Intelligence
• Good willpower
Heavy Pressure
Characteristics to look for: deep ink color and strong indentation on back of page.
Qualities
• Strong drive
• Willfulness and determination
• Desire for control
• Ability to commit to an objective
Very Heavy Pressure
Characteristics to look for: Indentations so deep they almost rip or distort the paper.
Qualities
• Frustration
• Anger
• Ill temper
• Intensity
Light Pressure
Characteristics to look for: light and delicate writing that barely makes an indentation on the back of the page.
Qualities
• Path of least resistance
• Sensitivity
• Delicacy
• Good mental energy
• Lack of stamina
Pressure in Lower Zone Only
Quality
• For many, an emphasis on sexuality and desire.
(The word Faithfully is circled for emphasis. The circle is not part of the original sample.)
DID YOU KNOW?
Extreme unevenness in pressure is often seen in the handwriting of criminals.
CHAPTER 3
What’s Your Sign?
THE SIX PERSONALITY “TYPES” IN HANDWRITING
Handwriting styles can be categorized into six types or personalities: introvert, extrovert, intuitive, sensing, thinking, and feeling. Each type will be explained, offering a more holistic approach to interpreting personality
