The Magic of Names

Names are more than mere labels; they carry depth, history, and symbolism. As a writer, choosing the perfect name for your characters can be a daunting task. The process of naming characters is an art that blends creativity with precision. Whether you are naming a character to reflect their personality or to contrast with other characters, the right name can add layers of meaning to your story. Let’s delve into the intricacies of naming characters and explore some practical steps to make the process smoother.

Names That Define Characters

A well-chosen name can define a character and enhance their presence in the narrative. For instance, in my middle-grade fantasy work-in-progress, I named one of the key characters Daphne. Originally, Daphne had shape-shifting powers, but as I continued drafting, I realized the name didn't quite fit her abilities. The name Daphne originates from the Greek myth where Apollo chases the nymph Daphne, who is transformed into a tree. This myth resonated with the character’s powers more than her shape-shifting abilities. As a result, Daphne's magic shifted to plant-related powers, giving her character a more cohesive and meaningful background.

Consider J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series, where names like Remus Lupin (a werewolf, with "Lupin" being a nod to "lupus," the Latin word for wolf) and Sirius Black (a character who can transform into a dog, with "Sirius" being the Dog Star) are not mere coincidences. These names reflect the characters' traits and histories, enriching the story.

Thematic or Ironic Names

In Charles Dickens' Great Expectations, the character Pip's full name is Philip Pirrip, but he is commonly referred to by his childhood nickname, "Pip." This simple and unassuming name contrasts with his great expectations and the complex, often dark journey he undertakes. The irony in his name highlights his humble beginnings and the stark difference between his aspirations and his reality.

In Suzanne Collins' The Hunger Games, Katniss Everdeen’s name is derived from the katniss plant, known as "arrowhead," which ties directly to her archery skills and her role as a hunter and provider.

Using thematic or ironic names can enrich your story by providing additional layers of meaning and creating a more immersive experience for the reader.

Names to Provide Contrast

Using names to create contrast can highlight differences between characters and add dynamism to the story. In my work, the protagonist Samantha, nicknamed Sam, needed a name that was straightforward and grounded to contrast with her sisters' elaborate names. Sam, being the pragmatic leader of the group, stands out with her no-nonsense, relatable name.

Similarly, in To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, the contrast between the names of Scout Finch and her brother Jem Finch underscores their differing personalities and roles in the story. Scout’s nickname reflects her curiosity and adventurous spirit, while Jem's more formal name hints at his maturation and growing sense of justice.

The Process of Naming Characters

Here's a solid process.

Step 1: Have Basic Parameters for the Name

Determine the qualities you want the name to convey. Is it flowery or straightforward? Long and flowing or short and to the point? This step is easier for characters than for real people because you can base the parameters on the character’s known traits. Jot down notes about the character’s personality and use them as a guide to brainstorm names.

Step 2: Use the Internet

Utilize online resources like BabyNames.com and the Social Security website to find names that fit your criteria. BabyNames.com provides origins, meanings, and variations of names, which can help you find a name that aligns with your character’s traits. The Social Security website allows you to check the popularity of names over the years, ensuring your name choice is appropriate for the character’s age and background.

Step 3: Try the Name on for Size

Test different names for your characters to see which ones resonate. Just like choosing a name for a child, you can try out a name for a while and see if it fits the character as the story develops. If it doesn’t work, it’s easy to change with a simple Find-Replace in your document.

Capture the Magic

Naming characters is a crucial aspect of storytelling that requires careful consideration and creativity. Whether defining a character, adding thematic or ironic elements, or creating contrast, the right name can significantly enhance your narrative. By following these steps and drawing inspiration from examples in literature, you can find names that capture the essence of your characters and enrich your story.