So a name is pretty important for a character, because it has to fit in with the environment and the setting and the character themselves. Here are some of my tips for naming your characters.
1. I find it hard to follow a cast of characters that have names beginning with the same letters. For example, I will never remember who John or Jack is, but Cale is definitely the dark haired one and James, the one with glasses.
2. Varying the lengths of names is also good, and can set the whole mood.
I notice that futuristic novels often have short names like Ten, Kia or Li, perhaps because they just sound more sophisticated and unknown.
3. The time period will also have an effect on names. Elizabeth, Jane and Will, traditional English names, are not usually found next to Autumn, Mercedes or Joshua, which can be spotted in an average {book-set} high school nowadays. Unless, of course, you're like me and enjoy adding a dash of traditional into your stories (sorry not sorry).
4. Meanings are very important. Have a quick glance at a list of names that include the definition and background, because they help set the tone. Remember, Conrad is brave and Leah is delicate.
5. The sound of a name as it rolls off the tongue can also give away some of the characters personality. Quite effectively. In my opinion, names with hard consonant such as k, ch, g, d, have strong personalities. Gael, Cade, Kaylen. They're not shy, perhaps a little bold at times, and certainly not scared of an adventure. Soft letters like l, m, h, can be rather shy and would rather listen than take lead. Allen, Mira, Harry? Rowan will be smart and Valentine is the bad guy. (Unusual letters make for unusual villains.) You can decide what combination sounds right.
6. Different genres have a different cast of names. In a crime thriller set in the real world, Kevins, Gregs, Davids, Ellens, and Julias will preside. Whereas in fantasy novels, with alternate universe-style settings, names include Autumn, River, Seven, Silver--get the idea?
7. Some names, though, already have a certain kind of person attached to them. I find that Mackenzie is that one popular kid with the coolest lip gloss, while Rebecca always has curly red hair, and Charlie is the tomboy girl. Sam is the sweet kid that's very approachable, while Josh is the hot sporty one. See? But please tear away from the stereotypes if you wish.
8. Don't forget to add variety. With a large cast of characters, if your story is set in present day, generally there will be a whole bunch of kids with different origins. Anne-Lin, Xi Ling, Jyoti, Imani, Nayeem, Oleksander... So many possibilities. Have a look around!
There you have it. That was my insight on naming. It all comes from personal experience in reading and writing, so have fun warping it to fit your style. I love naming my characters, and it's probably what I spend the most time on (oops.) Anyway, enjoy your writing!
Comment down below with suggestions, vote if you found this useful, and check out my other stories :)
Peace out ✌🏻️
YOU ARE READING
The Book of Names
De TodoHere is my collection of less common names that I like to use for my various stories. There are four categories: Boy's first names, Girl's first names, Unisex names, and Last names. They'll be in alphabetical order. Gender-neutral names will be put...
