Holy Worlds Christian Forum :: View topic - Real Names Versus Pen Names

I would prefer real names to pen names. When reading, it's harder to find out what else the author has written if they don't go by their real name; especially when they go under multiple pen names. One pen name is not so bad.

The exception I would have to that, would be when the "author" is a part of the story they've written. (i.e. A Series of Unfortunate Events contain the author's character "Lemony Snickett")

I would use my real name if I got published. I would want whoever bought my book to know that it was the real me writing it. My name stands for who I am, and you can get an impression of what someone is like through their name. I think names are very important. If I used a pen name, it would not relate to people who the person I am is as well as my own name. (for example, "Emily Grey" sounds like an entirely different personality to "Bianca Myles".)

It may sound a bit over the top, but that's why I'd use my real name. I'd hate to disappoint a child fan running up to me shouting my name when it really wasn't my name.

I understand that sentiment, especially about readers knowing it is the "real" you.

Every time I can remember finding out someone's name was a pen name I felt a little disappointment, bordering being tricked. I don't think they're trying to trick me or be dishonest, but I can't help but feel a little deceived - even if done for security, elegance, etc.

"Treskillard" is a pen name. I chose this over my given name because very-very few people can either spell or pronounce my given name, which is of Czech origin.

Treskillard wrote:

"Treskillard" is a pen name. I chose this over my given name because very-very few people can either spell or pronounce my given name, which is of Czech origin.

I can understand why you would do that. My surname is dutch, and every telemarketer that has rung here has got the pronunciation wrong. :roll:

I share that plus side of an odd name. You can always tell friend from foe. :rofl:

My pen name is Twyla Brooks. I chose that name because...while I was labeling envelopes at work, one of the recipient's names was Twyla and I really liked it. Then I looked up the symbolism. It means "Woven Of Double-Thread", and in my head I'm thinking, "my life and God's life intertwined." It sounds sort of silly, but I like it. :blush:

Calenmiriel wrote:

It doesn't sound silly to me.

Aubrey Hansen
Twyla Brooks
Luke Alistar

Lots of awesome names here.

Random idea - what would y'all say to having a directory that matches username with penname/real name (whichever one people use to label their books)? Would that pose a security hazard for anyone? I was just thinking it would help everyone keep track of each other, and be able to find each other's books when they're published!

Author:	Aragorn [ May 7th, 2011, 3:57 pm ]
Post subject:	Real Names Versus Pen Names
This topic has come up more than once, but never gotten its own thread... until now. Some authors write under their real name. Some decide to use a pen name. Which are you planning to do, and why? Or, if you have already been published, which did you choose to go with? Some authors even write under both their own name and a pen name, or under multiple pen names, when they write in different genres. Is that something you have considered doing?

Author:	The Wolverminion [ May 7th, 2011, 4:08 pm ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
I'm only writing under Matthew Lauser and Luke Alistar. Mostly Alistar.

Author:	Aragorn [ May 7th, 2011, 4:35 pm ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
Why did you decide to write mostly under Luke Alistar?

Author:	The Wolverminion [ May 7th, 2011, 5:19 pm ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
I like it...and I don't particularly want to be famous with my real name.

Author:	Aragorn [ May 7th, 2011, 5:20 pm ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
What specifically makes you feel that way?

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Author:	BushMaid [ May 7th, 2011, 5:38 pm ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
I would prefer real names to pen names. When reading, it's harder to find out what else the author has written if they don't go by their real name; especially when they go under multiple pen names. One pen name is not so bad. The exception I would have to that, would be when the "author" is a part of the story they've written. (i.e. A Series of Unfortunate Events contain the author's character "Lemony Snickett") I would use my real name if I got published. I would want whoever bought my book to know that it was the real me writing it. My name stands for who I am, and you can get an impression of what someone is like through their name. I think names are very important. If I used a pen name, it would not relate to people who the person I am is as well as my own name. (for example, "Emily Grey" sounds like an entirely different personality to "Bianca Myles".) It may sound a bit over the top, but that's why I'd use my real name. I'd hate to disappoint a child fan running up to me shouting my name when it really wasn't my name.

Author:	Ophelia MirZA Mimetes [ May 7th, 2011, 5:50 pm ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
If I ever publish my dragon story, I want to go by Elmirza Senorza, because I'd rather not be known. . . That may sound silly, but I just don't want everyone knowing who I am. I'm not supposed to tell anyone here my full name (parents' rule) but I'd want the HW'S to see it, that's part of the reason too. On the other hand, if I ever publish my poetry, I want to use my real name.

Author:	Rachel Newhouse [ May 7th, 2011, 6:06 pm ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
I use a pen name when crediting and promoting my writing. I blog under it, tweet under it, and subscribe all my credits with it. I sign my emails with it and use that name on writing-related forums. Some of my business contacts know me only by that name. I chose to use a pen name - which was a decision reached with my parents' involvement - for security. Using a pen name affords some privacy for my real name and identity, especially online. As I build a credit list and my writing (Lord-willing) gains popularity, my pen name will become my writer-identity, while my family and private life remains separate and uncomplicated. By the same token, using a pen name allowed me to pick a name that reflected my writing's essence. I picked a name that suited both me and my writing style while being easy to spell and remember. Unique enough to become a "brand name" of sorts, but not too obscure. I intentionally picked a pen name that reflected me yet "sounded" like a commercially viable screenwriter/author. At this time, I plan to use only one pen name, even though my works are diverse. Using only one allows me to promote my writing more effectively by connecting my credits. For the record, my pen name is Aubrey Hansen.

Author:	BushMaid [ May 7th, 2011, 6:13 pm ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
I like your pen name, Philly. It's very you. I'd probably have a hard time picking a name to reflect me (outside of "BushMaid", that is ).

Author:	Sienna North [ May 7th, 2011, 6:22 pm ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
For me, I love my first name but I have an unfortunate last name {unfortunate being an illegal activity, actually}, so I wouldn't want to use my full name for my writing. I've considered using a pen name that's quite similar yet slightly different, and I've also considered an entirely different name. This is one of the issues I need to straighten out before launching my blog . However, it's true that an obviously made-up/fantasy-type name sounds possibly immature and unreliable.

Author:	Bethany Faith [ May 7th, 2011, 7:57 pm ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
I write under my first and middle name, but I don't use my last name (due to the fact that it is atrocious). I really like the way my two names sound together, though, so I decided to go with them. Plus, they have nice meaningful backgrounds which suit me well.

Author:	Aragorn [ May 7th, 2011, 8:28 pm ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
BushMaid wrote: I would prefer real names to pen names. When reading, it's harder to find out what else the author has written if they don't go by their real name; especially when they go under multiple pen names. One pen name is not so bad. The exception I would have to that, would be when the "author" is a part of the story they've written. (i.e. A Series of Unfortunate Events contain the author's character "Lemony Snickett") I would use my real name if I got published. I would want whoever bought my book to know that it was the real me writing it. My name stands for who I am, and you can get an impression of what someone is like through their name. I think names are very important. If I used a pen name, it would not relate to people who the person I am is as well as my own name. (for example, "Emily Grey" sounds like an entirely different personality to "Bianca Myles".) It may sound a bit over the top, but that's why I'd use my real name. I'd hate to disappoint a child fan running up to me shouting my name when it really wasn't my name. I understand that sentiment, especially about readers knowing it is the "real" you.

Author:	Timotheus [ May 7th, 2011, 8:58 pm ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
Every time I can remember finding out someone's name was a pen name I felt a little disappointment, bordering being tricked. I don't think they're trying to trick me or be dishonest, but I can't help but feel a little deceived - even if done for security, elegance, etc. That being said, I think it would be kind of fun to write under a pen name if I wanted to go outside the box of my brand. Mine might be Spike Grady (honoring my grandfather's nickname for me, and my mom's maiden name), or maybe even Spike O'Grady...idk. I would prefer to just go by Tim Ward on my books, but that name is already purchased as a domain by a prominent illustrator in CA and I doubt it will be dropped anytime soon. The closest I could come in buying a domain was TimothyCWard.com, so it seems I should stick with that.

Author:	BushMaid [ May 7th, 2011, 10:07 pm ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
Jonathan Garner wrote: I understand that sentiment, especially about readers knowing it is the "real" you. Yes. It's a "this is me, not me pretending to be someone else who can write a good story" kind of thing for me. Timotheus wrote: Every time I can remember finding out someone's name was a pen name I felt a little disappointment, bordering being tricked. I don't think they're trying to trick me or be dishonest, but I can't help but feel a little deceived - even if done for security, elegance, etc. That's exactly how I feel, adding to the feeling with the knowledge if they have more then one pen name. It makes you wonder who the real author is. You feel cheated out of the enjoyment of knowing that whoever wrote that story is a real person.

Author:	Reiyen [ May 7th, 2011, 10:18 pm ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
I don't think I need a pen name, so why bother? I think it would be kind of cool to be recognized by your real name when you happen to give it. Timotheus wrote: Every time I can remember finding out someone's name was a pen name I felt a little disappointment, bordering being tricked. I don't think they're trying to trick me or be dishonest, but I can't help but feel a little deceived - even if done for security, elegance, etc. Agreed, especially because I didn't know pen names existed until I found out that someone I always called by their pen name had a "real" one. I was a little kid, and felt very confused.

Author:	PrincessoftheKing [ May 7th, 2011, 10:26 pm ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
I've always thought that I would use my real name (for the reasons y'all already gave ), but, unfortunately, I have a famous cousin with the same last name... and I would rather not be associated with him. But I haven't really decided yet; I figured I have a while before I'd need a pen name.

Author:	Timotheus [ May 7th, 2011, 10:28 pm ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
I don't mean to start a debate over the merit of pen names, because I totally understand every one on here's reason for wanting one. In your case I'd likely do the same. I'm waiting for people to quote the part right after where I say I think it would be cool to use one, just to show the other side. When Rob Treskillard told me his last name wasn't Treskillard, I thought "Oh, really?" but then when he told me his real name I understood and think Treskillard is a very cool pen name. The disappointment wears off, especially when a cool pen name is used.

Author:	Rachel Newhouse [ May 7th, 2011, 11:01 pm ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
I completely understand everyone's reasonings in favor of real names. I, personally, don't have any problem with knowing people by a fake name. Partly because I understand why they'd use one, and partly because I myself have tons of nicknames. Some days I am called more often by one of my alter egos than I am by my real name! They're all pieces of me. Some people have very "writerly" given names. To me, "Tim Ward" (or a variant thereof) sounds like an author. It makes a good byline. Some people, as they've mentioned, have problematic or difficult given names. For them, it's a wise choice to use a pen name. My real name isn't exactly unwriterly, but my pen name has a much stronger marketable essence, in my opinion. Thanks, Aussie.

Author:	Constable Jaynin Mimetes [ May 7th, 2011, 11:13 pm ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
I write under my real name for no better reason than that I never even considered a pen name. I'm not sure I even understood the concept. I do use my middle name, but then I've taken up the habit of using my middle name as much as possible. Part of my reason for using my middle name is that my first is so short, and it also helps set people straight about nicknames. Katie Lynn Daniels is clearly my full name, so it forestalls the typical "Are you a Katherine?" questions. I've only considered writing under a pen name once... but the reasons are complicated, and I've had too many people tell me it's probably a copyright violation and I don't agree, but the entire project is kind of in limbo right now anyway.

Author:	Lady Elanor [ May 8th, 2011, 3:18 am ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
I'd always use my real name, not a pen name. I don't have a problem with pen names either though, I just wouldn't choose to use one.

Author:	Andrew Amnon Mimetes [ May 8th, 2011, 7:53 am ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
I use my middle name as much as possible if only because it's my given name. For many years I went under the pseudo Uriah T. Weston, and planned on getting published w/ it. Now that name only exists on the Rebelution forum and a few scattered internet accounts. I'm still on the fence as to real name or pen name. Were I to use my pen name I would use A. Andrew Joyce, or maybe even just Andrew Joyce, since that is a brand which I've already begun to build with ITB/Psalm 139:23/Google Buzz. If I were to use a pen name it would be a modification of my real name: J. Arthur Andrews. eru

Author:	Treskillard [ May 8th, 2011, 8:26 am ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
"Treskillard" is a pen name. I chose this over my given name because very-very few people can either spell or pronounce my given name, which is of Czech origin. Treskillard is an old Cornish village name that my ancestors used as an alias to differentiate themselves from other branches of the family in the 1600's. It's at least in the family, you might say. So ... in the end it was a marketing decision. I wanted people to be able to search for me and find me. Also, there is no one alive anymore with Treskillard, so I was able to get Treskillard.com ... I "own" this name in Google. My daughter, Adele, agreed with me on this, and since she began writing a fantasy novel the same month I did back in 2006, she took the pen name as well. So that makes it kind of fun. I have to say, though, that it makes things complicated! Life would be easier without having to explain it to people. -Robert

Author:	The Wolverminion [ May 8th, 2011, 11:20 am ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
Well, you know Ted Dekker? He had to swear the pastor of his church to secrecy about him going there. If there's any chance that I could become that well known, I don't want to be associated with some mighty author by my real name. I can still be Matthew Mark Lauser, a normal guy, in my normal life. Luke Mathias Alistar will be my buffer from the world. I'm well versed at using more than one name. It would be simple to introduce myself as Matthew when I don't want to be recognized as an author, and Luke when I do. And besides that, the name Luke Mathias Alistar has some sentimental value...

Author:	Aragorn [ May 8th, 2011, 12:46 pm ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
I'm probably going to use my real name. I have considered a pen name for privacy reasons such as Luke noted, though that it can be complicated as Treskillard noted and not quite feel right as others have noted are considerations. Also, a pen name doesn't appear to offer much security for a successful author in our current technological age.

Author:	Kiev Shawn [ May 8th, 2011, 2:39 pm ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
I've had several pen names that I went through over the years... None of them have been used yet. I don't know if I'll end up using one or not... It would depend. If I did use one, it would probably end up being "Jeriah E Meyd", or something like that. I always liked the name.

Author:	Neil of Erk [ May 8th, 2011, 3:03 pm ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
Using a pen name doesn't offer a lot of security, but it does offer an extra buffer of privacy. My reasons for going under a pen name (Neil Michael) rather than my real name (Christian Jordan Michael Wright, for you FaceBook types, sorry if I don't respond to your friend request for a couple months) are many. 1. Privacy: Rather than swearing my pastor to secrecy about my identity, I'll just never bring it up. If he asks if I've ever heard of myself, I'll say, "Yeah, that Michael guy is some author, eh?" 2. Marketing. Neither my legal name, nor my given name are particular "catchy". Neil Michael, on the other hand, sounds somewhat memorable. 3. Efficiency: I already go by separate legal and given names. Rather than confuse the readers (and possibly my future editor), the lawyers can use my legal name (Christian) and the publishers can use my pen name. 4. When you already have three official names, you might as well add a fourth! (It makes me easy to track down on FaceBook.)

Author:	Riniel Jasmina [ May 8th, 2011, 3:38 pm ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
I'm still debating the pen name thing. I have an unusual last name so I'd love to put it on the map. On the flip side, my dad works in network security (or lack thereof) so my real (uncommon) name would be very easy to track (seriously, google me ) I'd love a pen name for a number of reasons. I've made a million nick-names for myself over time but none of them really caught on, with a pen name I'd have one that would stay and keep me under the radar. At the same time I'm a little proud so I'd want people to know the work was mine... The meaning thing bothered me so I chose an alias that meant the same thing, so if you ever find a book written by a Kitra Talise Skene (or variation therein) I'll autograph it for you.

Author:	Leandra Falconwing [ May 8th, 2011, 4:15 pm ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
I will probably use my real name. I haven't ever given a lot of thought to it, but I'd prefer to not have to explain it to all my friends and family. I don't have any particular problems with a pen name, I just don't think it's going to be the route I'll take.

Author:	BushMaid [ May 8th, 2011, 4:24 pm ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
Treskillard wrote: "Treskillard" is a pen name. I chose this over my given name because very-very few people can either spell or pronounce my given name, which is of Czech origin. I can understand why you would do that. My surname is Dutch, and every telemarketer that has rung here has got the pronunciation wrong.

Author:	Riniel Jasmina [ May 8th, 2011, 4:29 pm ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
BushMaid wrote: Treskillard wrote: "Treskillard" is a pen name. I chose this over my given name because very-very few people can either spell or pronounce my given name, which is of Czech origin. I can understand why you would do that. My surname is dutch, and every telemarketer that has rung here has got the pronunciation wrong. I share that plus side of an odd name. You can always tell friend from foe.

Author:	Constable Jaynin Mimetes [ May 8th, 2011, 5:00 pm ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
Haha, I'm really good with supposedly impossible last names. It's kind of a challenge to myself to be able to pronounce them correctly, and preferably spell them. (It makes me curious what yours is, Treskillard.) I was challenged to pronounce the Polish name of a friend after having only known him a month. Of about a dozen people I was the only one who knew his last name, pronounced it correctly, and then spelled it on demand. Of course, my mom is Dutch, so maybe I'm just used to unpronounceable things.

Author:	Jaye L. Knight [ May 8th, 2011, 5:09 pm ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
I use a pen name, Molly Evangeline. Molly is my true first name, but my last name, while not really hard to pronounce, is long and not very authorly sounding. I never considered using a pen name until I published my first book. My mom came up to me one day and asked if I thought of doing that. We both agreed I didn't really want my real name all over the internet. My first thoughts after that were, "Okay . . . so what in the world should my pen name be?" (I was kind of on a deadline because my book would soon go to print. Yikes.) But I prayed about it, and a few hours later I looked at my mom and said, "How about Molly Evangeline?" I can't even remember now how I got around to that, but it fits me and my writing perfectly, and now I answer to it as easily as my real name. One other reason I thought it would be nice is when (Lord willing) I get married someday, my author name won't change and confuse my readers.

Author:	BushMaid [ May 8th, 2011, 5:14 pm ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
Riniel Jasmina wrote: I share that plus side of an odd name. You can always tell friend from foe. True!!

Author:	Rachel Newhouse [ May 8th, 2011, 6:04 pm ]
Post subject:	Re: Real Names Versus Pen Names
That is another benefit to a pen name - when you get married, you don't necessarily need to change your pen name. If you're using your real name and have already built up a writerly identity for that name, having to change it, or having to start using a hyphenated last name, could be a drawback and hurt promotion. As some have mentioned, I think one plus to picking a pen name is being able to choose a name that is unique enough to stand out yet easy enough to pronounce and spell. If people can't remember how to spell your name, they might have trouble finding you!