Character Naming - Tumblr Posts
Ok… I’m curious: Blue is working on the AFF and we realized there are 2 characters that share a name exactly, and 2 characters that share a name spelling but the name is pronounced differently.
Curious about people’s thoughts because it’s actually something I’m curious about if people would be ok with that in fiction?
(Btw one of the characters has a nickname and Blue is debating about changing the spelling of one of the names to make it more evident that it is pronounced differently. Such as David becoming Daveed so English speakers can better understand the pronunciation of the French name)
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Coming Up With Character Names
This is going to be a fairly short post, so if you guys want more information or for me to go into more depth, totally send me an ask and I’d be happy to.
Method 1: Building a name
This is can be a little difficult, but consider what traits your character has, and what sounds you associate with said traits. For example, if xe’s more blunt, maybe xir name has one or two syllables. If xe’s quieter, maybe softer sounds. If xe’s a fighter, maybe harsher sounds like k and t. It’s really up to you, but thinking about what sounds go with your character can be a great place to start.
Method 2: The keysmash
This is something that works better in fantasy and similar genres, but do a short keysmash-and-simplify. For example, “awerinaewoirp” might become Awryn, or Neywoir. Basically, it’s about finding patterns in random letters and cutting the rest out. You can use letters that aren’t actually there, or you can cut letters if you don’t want to use them.
Method 3: Historical/regional names
Think of what type of culture your characters live in or come from. Even if that’s in fantasy or some other planet in a sci-fi, what cultures does your character’s resemble. Then look up names from said culture. You can also mess with the spelling to make them fit the vibe of your story better.
Method 4: Baby name websites
Nameberry is my go-to. Basically, think of traits you want your name to have, or think of names that are similar to the one you’re going for, and browse through suggestions. You don’t have to keep any of them. but it can be good inspiration. Plus, appearing as a pregnant mom in your search history is a good way to spice up your searches of “how to gut someone with a knife.”
Method 5: Mess with the spelling
Note: do not go overboard with this. Basically the idea is to take a relatively normal name, and screw with the spelling. This is common especially in various YA genres such as postapocalyptic, or fantasy. You can add letters in, change letters to other letters, or take letters out.