I always find that I have to get the perfect name for a character or else the rest of the story does not seem to flow. What are your tips on coming up with names that fit the character just right?
I always find that I have to get the perfect name for a character or else the rest of the story does not seem to flow. What are your tips on coming up with names that fit the character just right?
I keep a list of any interesting/unusual names I come across. If I get stuck for a character there's usually something suitable, either using one as it is or mixing Christian and surnames up.
Thank you! This will really help me!
I absolutely agree. I think character names are hugely important in that they signal for both the writer and the reader. If your character is truly working for you, very often, he or she will give you the name. Live with your character for a few days/weeks, get to know them, then the name should arise naturally. It's a two way thing - the character defines the name to some extent, and vice versa.
Also, think about nicknames, how they define people.
Try this: (From Short Circuit, ed Vanessa Gebbie, Salt Publishing)
'Google baby names and spend some time looking at the lists for both girls and boys. Don't rush this, savour the names, until one of them speaks to you. Names carry resonance, some more than others, and it's often possible for a story to arise purely from a name.'