General Notes Graphologists do not always use the same terms in this connection, and so it is most important to know what we are looking for and how to define what we see. Jacoby tells us that -
"..simplification consists in the elimination of the unessential; enrichment in the emphasis of the essential; neglect in the elimination of the essential, and flourishes (sometimes also referred to as "complication" or "elaboration") in the emphasis of the unessential"
Assessment
In graphology we have to avoid the abstract and remember we are dealing with a living art rather than an exact science. In assessing certain features +1 and -1 together do not make '0', thus cancelling out, but must be considered separately. It is so with simplification and complication in a sample of writing.
The features cannot be measured by any fixed, accepted yardstick. Impression counts for a lot, and as a rule all that is possible is to classify a script as, e.g. very simplified, fairly simplified, rather enriched, elaborate capitals, fullness in upper zone, many neglected letters, and so on; in other words, note briefly what you see, and where you see it, and never mind if the result appears to be somewhat contradictory. The writer may well be rather an inconsistent person, which is important.
General Interpretations
Simplified Writing
The guiding image is simplification and the source meaning is seeing the essential. Simplified writing of high form standard is a sure sign of intelligence. Although some control is necessary for its execution, it is usually looser, quicker and more released than complicated writing. Derived meanings are:-
| Grasp of essentials |
Sober realism |
| Natural behaviour |
Limited appreciation of beauty |
| Simple tastes |
Dislike of ornament or frills |
| Matter-of-fact-approach |
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| Good judgement |
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| Objectivity |
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| Clarity |
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Neglected WritingThis is an overdone form of simplification, in which the essential forms of letters is either omitted or mutilated. Neglect may come from a number of basic causes, such as:-
| A modified motor image |
| Lack of intelligence |
| Increased speed |
The movement is rapid and released. It can be deliberate or result from weakness or from haste but in any case, because it is either difficult to read or illegible, it implies a lack of consideration - or even thought - for the reader. Derivative meanings include:-
| Laziness |
Weakness |
| Unpunctuality |
Untidiness |
| Insincerity |
Cunning |
| Inconsiderate |
Deceit |
| Unreliability |
Hysteria** |
| Restlessness |
| **Note on Hysteria:
Hysteria is an emotional lack of balance that derives from a feeling of exposure and a desire for shelter or protection. People can be considered in three broad categories:-
- Those with a strong, rigid "shell", in which they normally live and from which they seldom emerge.
- Those with a flexible "shell", which they can use or discard as they wish.
- Those without a temperamental "shell". They are the hysterical types, who will revert to almost any expedient to obtain the protection they feel is lacking.
The manifestations of hysteria are many and varied. They range from imaginery complaints or troubles, that may excite sympathy or help, to the limit of lying down flat and refusing to make any voluntary movement or effort at all. Mimicry of others is a frequent indication.
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