Choosing a name or names for a story is an
essential part of any plot. Most importantly, one must know what genre he or
she is focusing on. One does not receive a second chance if the story is
complete and of course published. Last week, for a creative writing class, one
of student chose her name – Ashley Bunsen Burner. I was stunned because it was
unusual. I asked her why that kind of surname. Her reply, “I just went to the
science lab and I liked that name so I used that as a surname.” Her innocent
reply and appeal to the science lab was interesting. That made an impression on
me whilst indicating a link to her choice of name.
We have many books, websites, friends,
strangers, and a family from whom we can ask about names. A character’s name is
like an embedded jewel of trust that enhances value to readers as they may
relate to. Names can create humour that the reader may never forget that
character. Today, we have all sorts of names of characters from fiction and non-fiction stories that have left a strong notion. When choosing a name, the writer can
create a mind map showing where the character may be from, personality traits,
and in this way a name can be chosen to suit the physical appearance and background
(rich, poor, elite, or a country from Asia, Africa, Europe or America).
Sometimes, characters are set a different era where names can be sounding
ancient but still leaving a charm. Nicknames can be given so the reader feels
connected easily than remembering long complicated names - if the writer plans
to put one. For example, the story – Pride and Prejudice, characters like Mr.
Darcy, and Elizabeth simply drove me into a new era. The wit, sarcasm, romance,
and charm can magnetize a reader with a splendid characterization and
personality.
Sometimes, peoples’ personalities in real
life simply leave an impression that cultivates into one’s writing. The
association between the personality and name activates the story line. To
create humour a writer can add adjectives or adverbs – precisely a
characteristic which will add a trite liveliness in the story line. For instance,
Shawn Beast, Gwen Fallen, Scarlet Pie, and Nicky Wormy could create oomph
towards a certain personality trait making a story fun to read along. It’s
always the writer’s choice and the writer knows best about the characters since
he or she bring the entire story alive. The imagination has no boundaries and so
does story lines. The readers today explore various genres and sometimes they
surprise the writer.
Therefore, if a writer has trouble with names
or choosing personality traits, it would be better to create an outline, mind
map, or even draw it which can make it easier to develop a link and not fall
out of the story as chapters’ progress. Have you thought of your story? Now
choose the name. With love – Rose Apple
by Bhavna Khemlani
The Brit Writers Blog
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