Dickens and the Stenographic Mind

Discover the fascinating intersection of literature and shorthand in Dickens and the Stenographic Mind by Hugo Bowles. Published by Oxford University Press in 2019, this groundbreaking interdisciplinary study spans 214 pages, exploring Charles Dickens's profound relationship with shorthand throughout his life. From his initial encounters with the 'despotic' symbols of Gurney's Brachygraphy in 1828 to his enduring passion for shorthand in reporting, letter writing, copying, and note-taking, Bowles illuminates how this skill shaped Dickens's creative process and literary output. This insightful examination not only highlights Dickens's innovative use of shorthand but also offers a unique perspective on the broader implications of this practice in the 19th century. Perfect for scholars and fans of Dickens alike, this book invites readers to delve deeper into the mind of one of literature's greatest figures.