How do you choose names for your characters? Do you keep a list? Do you use names of family, friends and co-workers--or your dreaded former boyfriends?!!
Lately, I've noticed when writing in a hurry I "grab" the same character names too often, namely (pun intended) "Jenny" and "Sylvia." I don't know why but I do. Actually, my parents almost named me Jennifer but didn't like "Jenny" so they chose Beth. I happen to like the name Jenny so maybe that's why I use her as a character. I also tend to use "S" names quite a bit like Sarah and, yes, Sylvia.
When we're all spending too much time on Facebook or Twitter, I say we keep a running list of interesting names that we see online. At least we'll feel halfway productive while socializing. I often check the phone book (the real, heavy one--old school) for last names. Last names are particularly hard for me.
Of course, if you have an ethnic character from a country you're not that familiar with, you'll want to Google possible names so they are realistic.
Last but not least, I bought a baby book of about 5,000 names. That should keep me from tiring out poor Jenny and Sylvia! How about you? How do you choose names for your characters?
Behindthename.com is my go-to for names. I like it because it tells you the history of the name and where it's from. They also run a site called surnames.behindthename.com/
ReplyDeleteCool. Thank you for these resources, Allison! I can't wait to read the history of Beth, Jenny and Sylvia. ;)
DeleteI used to use Carolyn and Matt in the beginning of each book as a stand-in for the Heroine and Hero until the characters revealed their true natures, backgrounds & personalities. Then I'd "know" what name fit each. For some reason, I stopped doing this, but I often have to change the name I assigned them.
ReplyDeleteThat's a good idea, Megan. Have a couple of go-to names and change them as the characters develop. Thanks.
DeleteSo far, they just come to me. Not at first, but after I've written a few pages. But, I think the baby name book is a good idea.
ReplyDeleteGood for you, Wanda. I keep post-its all over the house. When I hear a name I like, I write it down. Problem is, those little notes get buried under a pile.
DeleteI use Google a lot, looking for names that were popular during the year that my character was born, as well as for lists of last names. These days, I can find just about anything I need sitting on my couch with my computer in my lap.
ReplyDeleteThat's a good point, Sharon. I have Googled popular names from the seventies or sixties, for example. Thanks for that important reminder.
DeleteI'm old-school. I use The Character Naming Sourcebook by Writers Digest books. Names our listed broken down by ethnic background, common sur-names are given then broken down into Female and Male names with meanings. I usually have an idea of my character's ethnic background (as that can often times lead into character traits) then use the sourcebook to go from there.
ReplyDeleteI have several WD books but missed that one, Angela. Thx for the info.
DeleteI try to match the names with personality or quirks of the character. However, if they are the 'straight man' in my comedies, I give them common names like, Brian, Brad, or Julie. And if course, Rachel is my favorite.
ReplyDeleteI agree, Russell. I give quirky names to quirky people. I like Rachel, too.
ReplyDeleteI agree, Russell. I give quirky names to quirky people. I like Rachel, too.
ReplyDelete