General remarks
The writing line or "baseline" is the line on which the letters sit. Sometimes a pad of writing paper has the printed line already provided, or a sheet of 'guiding lines' to be placed under the page. When writing is produced on an unlined sheet of paper however, the 'baseline' is the pattern formed by the 'imaginary' line, with only the lower extensions, i.e. the lower loops of 'g', 'j', 'y', etc., extending below it.
The straightness and direction of the line is one of the more easily changeable features of handwriting. It is liable to vary according to the conditions of writing, the importance of the letter (or rather the degree of attention being given to layout and tidiness), and according to the emotions, state of mind, and mood of the moment, as well as being a reflection of the basic temperament of the writer.
It is important to know whether the rise and fall of lines is a constant feature in a given person's writing: if this is not possible, one must look for confirmation elsewhere of any deductions made. More than one sample is best.
If lines are straight, but the writing is irregular or arrhythmic, examine the line spacing carefully for indications of the use of 'guiding lines'.
Assess as 'slight rise', 'marked fall', 'drooping at end of lines', etc., and whether the feature is consistent.
Rising lines: The guiding image is ascending and the meaning is the feeling of (or intention towards) rising in the world, surmounting obstacles and difficulties. The movement is centrifugal and released.
A rising line may be straight, denoting determination, or wavy. Derived meanings are:-
| Ambition | Excitability |
| Aggression | Euphoria (exalted feelings that in strong form can amount to mania) |
| Optimism | Choleric behaviour (may result from liver trouble) |
| Hopefulness | |
| Cheeful mood |
Remember that all the above indicators must be confirmed by other factors in the script.
Straight lines: Guiding image is a straightforward path adn the basic meaning is a firm, unchanging foundation. The movement is controlled and a balance between centrifugal and centripetal. Derivatives:
| Straightness | Constancy of purpose | Inflexibility |
| Discipline | Realism | |
| Will power | Responsibility |
Falling lines The guiding image is thta of descending, and the basic interpretation is a sinking feeling, or one of diffidence. The movement is weak and shows a certain lack of control; it is usually centripetal.
It frequently results from a purely physical weakness, or physical or mental tirednes of a temporary nature. Some people's moods when writing can be judged at once from the shape of their lines, especially those with sensitive emotions. Derivative meanings:
| Critical approach | Tiredness | Indolence |
| Down to earth | Depression | Apathy |
| Gloom and melancholy | Ill health | |
| Pessimism | Digestive trouble |
Note: There is a special, and rather rare, form of falling line whic has a specific physical cause. Using the elbow or forearm of the writing hand as a form of elementary pivot, without sliding it along the table periodically, causes an arc-like line formation, lower on the right than on the left.
Especially in slow writing, this may be a confirmatory sign of laziness, but care should be taken before assuming this.
Undulating or wavy lines:
The guiding image is serpentine and the source meaning a desire to act in that way, either to get out of things, to get into them, or to avoid trouble. Hence:
| Diplomacy | Trickery |
| Avoidance of open conflict | Fraud |
The form standard and the speed of writing are important in deducing the right answer. (Winston Churchill used wavy lines quite often.)
It is also necessary to distinguish between this feature and a completely irregular or arrhythmic line, which seldom has a good side and usually derives from nervous or physical weakness or instability.
Concave Arc
The guiding image is that of rising again after a descent and the basic meaning is a recovery of sterngth or energy, a come-back, or a successful fight against slackness or depression. It is a confirming indication of courage, stamina and determination.
Convex Arc
Guiding image is a rise followed by a descent and the basic indication is a fading of initial enthusiasm and energy, from which derives:
| Desire for variety and change | Easy to disappoint or discourage |
| Manifold interest | Easily bored |
| Good starter | Liable to give up; bad finisher |
| Lack of stamina or determination |
"Roof-Tile" formation:
This feture, according to the upward or downward slope of the "tiles", shows a continual effort to restrain or control optimistic or pessimistic tendencies. It usually implies a sense of responsibility.
Thus, a series of rising roof-tiles may shown a continual effort to come down to earth. On the other hand, a descending tile, or series of them, may show a continual inner reminder of spiritual responsibiilty and an effort to shun material demands, or steady self-encouragement in the face of difficulties or weakness. As with other features, confirmation is always needed.
If you have enjoyed this brief introduction, and would like to take a serious course of instruction, details of tuition are available. The Institute offers a series of examinations leading to Diploma for those students who successfully complete all stages.
