Meaning: The quote "It doesn't use shading, but it does use stroke length variations" by John Gregg, the inventor of the Gregg shorthand system, is a concise and insightful observation regarding the unique features of his shorthand writing method. Gregg shorthand is a system of phonography, or a writing system that uses symbols to represent sounds, designed for rapid writing by hand. The quote highlights the emphasis on stroke length variations as a means of representing different sounds and words, rather than relying on shading as seen in other shorthand systems.

The Gregg shorthand system was developed by John Robert Gregg in the late 19th century as a way to improve upon existing shorthand methods. Gregg sought to create a more efficient and practical system that could be easily learned and used in a variety of settings, such as business, education, and journalism. The resulting system is known for its reliance on strokes and their variations to represent consonants, vowels, and other phonetic elements of the English language.

By stating that the Gregg shorthand system "doesn't use shading," Gregg is distinguishing his system from earlier shorthand methods that relied on the use of shading or thickness of lines to differentiate between sounds or letters. Instead, the system focuses on the length and direction of strokes to convey distinct phonetic elements. This approach allows for faster writing and greater legibility, as it minimizes the complexity of the symbols while still accurately representing the sounds of the language.

The emphasis on stroke length variations in Gregg shorthand is a key feature that sets it apart from other shorthand systems. By varying the length and direction of strokes, a wide range of sounds and phonetic combinations can be represented, enabling a skilled user to transcribe speech at a rapid pace. This focus on strokes also contributes to the aesthetic simplicity of the system, making it accessible to learners and practical for everyday use.

In addition to stroke length variations, the Gregg shorthand system incorporates other innovative features, such as the use of positioning and the omission of unnecessary letters or sounds. These elements further contribute to the efficiency and speed of writing in Gregg shorthand, allowing users to capture spoken language with remarkable brevity and accuracy.

John Robert Gregg's quote serves as a succinct explanation of the fundamental principles of his shorthand system, highlighting its departure from traditional shading-based methods and its reliance on stroke length variations. This insight into the unique characteristics of Gregg shorthand sheds light on the ingenuity and practicality of the system, as well as its enduring legacy as a widely used and influential writing method.

Overall, the quote encapsulates the essence of the Gregg shorthand system, drawing attention to its distinctive approach to representing language through strokes and variations in a manner that prioritizes speed, accuracy, and simplicity. Gregg's innovation in developing this shorthand system has left a lasting impact on the field of writing and communication, making it a valuable contribution to the history of linguistic technology.