6
Apr
Names are a critical part of a character, as they draw the eye and catch the readers interest. They provide the theme to the character, and often define his primary characteristic. The names also need to fit the setting. Using Japanese names in an Aztec setting throws the reader out, and causes them to be distracted from the thread of the story. Names should add to the character, and add to the mystique of the plot, not detract.
For me and The Four Part Land, the speech of the setting is from the Gaelic language tree. It’s referred to in the story as the ‘high language’ or the language of naming, whereas most of the daily speech is in traders tongue or the low language. This allows me to drop in names and have characters fit without having to muck about giving English translations for most things. (Side note: do provide translations where it matters to the story, no point confusing the reader with a name that means something and is never explained). It also allows me to use very basic defining characteristics, especially for minor characters. The lookout is called Eagle, an insulting commoner is called Donkey (or Ass), and a sergeant is called Soldier. Yet, when these basic English words are translated into another language (in my case, usually Welsh, sometimes Manx or Cornish), they suddenly became exotic and interesting, through the power of translation. Here’s a basic example: the word Spear becomes Thryferwch, and a character known for his ramrod straight back and focused sense of purpose. If you’re ever having trouble coming up with a character, pick a random word or two, toss it into the translator, and build a personality on what comes back. It’s a wonderful way to quickly generate small characters.
For translation, I just have a few online translators bookmarked, and run a word or two through them and see what comes out. I pick the result that I like the most, and off I go, the character has his name, or the place its descriptor.
Please note that this mostly applies to fantasy or science fiction writing. Otherwise, the names usually end up sounding like they don’t quite belong. I know the information is a bit unorganized, but I hope it helps.
21
Jan
So, it’s been a little quite around here recently. There’s unfortunately been a good reason for that, which is while the layout and all internal structure of the book is complete, I’ve been having a pretty hard time finding a cover artist who I like, and who fits within the budget of Deepwood Publishing.
Hopefully I won’t jinx the matter by counting chickens early, but it appears there might be one such person on the horizon. If all goes well, there will be good news to report by Monday. Fingers crossed on that one.
For aspiring authors out there, don’t make the mistake I did and leave the cover to the last minute. Start hunting one down as soon as you start the editing process, if not earlier. It might seem like you aren’t quite ready for one yet, but your schedule will thank you later.