I have trouble with names. My daughter is the best example of this: Before she was born, we decided on a name, but once I'd met her, the chosen name didn't suit her. Nearly six weeks later, with the statutory deadline looming, her father and I were still arguing outside the registrar's office. She ended up with three names. And that probably explains why I sometimes still call her CatBaby - because, for nearly six weeks, that's all we called her.
I'm the same with my fictional characters - just can't decide. A name's so important and can tell you so much about a person - for a writer, names are a very handy shortcut to describing a character's age and social position. And, of course, there are so many characters waiting to be named - it's a never ending chore and I'm always looking for for ideas.
There are some names I can't possibly use. Names of people who have upset me (there are many) unless for villains, of course. And unusual names of people I know - I wouldn't want them to think I'd stolen their identity for my story.
At my age, I know a lot of people, so it does somewhat limit the choice.
Using the names of people who have annoyed me and making sure those characters come to a sticky end is always fun.
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He he, I love using the name of people who I don't like for "bad guys". There are some names that would never be any good for hero names like my dad's name or my kids' names. I can't even read books with the same name as my ex's. Just can't get past that name!!
ReplyDeleteI think it was Kate Hardy recently who stalled on her ms because one of her characters didn't have the "right" name so you're in very good company :-)
LOL I bet your daughter appreciates the time and effort you put into her name =)
ReplyDeleteGreat idea, Melissa. :0)
ReplyDeleteI'm the same, Jo. Even worse when it's my own name.
Aw thanks, Lacey.
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