How to Read Human Nature: Its Inner States and Outer Forms

by William Walker Atkinson

In Fig. 20 we see the first point to be observed in the study of chins. The rule is to draw an imaginary perpendicular line from the point at the root of the nose, between the two eyebrows. In the normal and average type, the line touches the upper lip and chin. But we find the normal condition in but comparatively few cases, the majority manifesting a variation backward or forward. When the chin is found to recede from the line, it is interpreted as an indication of weakness, lack of stability and firmness, and a general vacillating and unstable character. When the chin projects beyond the line, it is interpreted as indicating firmness, stubborness, and a generally selfish nature, which is considered "strong" by contrast with the "weak" receding chin. When the projecting chin is pointed, it indicates that the strength is manifested as grasping, miserliness, etc.; while if it is square, it indicates Combativeness and Destructiveness as well as Acquisitiveness; and if it is very broad and square, it indicates the domineering, "bossy," tyrannical, self-willed character.

Fig. 20
CHIN STUDY

The above points regarding the chin must always be taken into consideration. The following points are based on the shape of the chin when in normal position, that is when the perpendicular line descends in a straight line from the root of the nose to the chin:

The narrow-round chin indicates idealistic feeling not manifesting in decided action. These people have high desires, longings, and aspiration, but lack the will to act upon the same.

The narrow-square chin indicates the idealistic nature, accompanied by the will to act upon the same.

The broad-round chin indicates substantial feeling, without the will to manifest it in decided action. These people desire ordinary, plain, practical things, but lack the initiative, will and nerve to overcome obstacles to acquire them.

The broad-square chin indicates that the feelings are plain, practical and substantial, with the will to back them up.

From the above, it will be seen that roundness indicates feeling; and that squareness denotes will; that narrowness denotes ideality; while broadness denotes practical, substantial, plain desires and tastes.