Oscar Pistorius: Guilty or Innocent? Let’s Ask His Handwriting

Oscar Pistorius (R) and his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp, whom he killed in 2013

Oscar Pistorius (R) and his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp, whom he killed in 2013

A South African judge is currently deliberating the fate of Oscar Pistorius. The verdict rests on “possible improbabilities” a phrase wrought with ambiguity.

Handwriting analysis of a note written by the Blade Runner was posted to the Internet by the Australian news media. By the content, one can infer this was composed well before the death of his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp.

Oscar Pistorius: Guilty or Innocent? Let's Ask His Handwriting 1

Oscar Pistorius handwriting

Professional analysis of his handwriting and signature reveal the following:

  • Overall upward slant indicates a positive direction and intention
  • Small, nearly imperceptible letters reflect shyness / timidity
  • Frequent use of exclamation points and a smiley face signify enthusiasm and child-like tendencies
  • Half cursive / half printing shows a person with competing personality traits

Oscar Pistorius’ signature reveals even more:

  • Sharp edges of the first letter (P which looks more like a Z) indicates a person who is quick to react
  • Edges also indicate anger
  • Dotting the “i” with a circle is sign of immaturity
  • “Oscar” is beneath “Pistorius” which could mean he feels subordinate to his family and/or is trying to prove his value to others

The note was written in 2011 and represents a happier time in Pistorius’ life. The general tone of the message is upbeat, closing with a large M and L in the words “Much” and “Love”.

The line that appears to be part of the P in “Pistorius” acts as a divider between Oscar and his family. Only those closest to the Blade Runner could confirm his family dynamics. But based on the sample, Pistorius is a man torn between two (possibly 3) versions of himself.

The outcome of the trial is currently pending – holding many lives and emotions in the balance.


Disclaimer: One element of handwriting may be analysed at a time, but always look at the entire handwriting sample before arriving at any conclusion.