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Reasons for a pen name: Editor's Notes #277 December 26, 2018 |
| Hello, By any other name would smell as sweet. —Juliet (Shakespeare) In this issue: 1. Reasons for a pen name 2. Tickled my funny bone 3. Interesting Web site 4. Writing prompt 5. A special offer 1. Reasons for a pen name Pen name, pseudonym, or nom de plume. Whatever you call it, some writers at least think about writing under another name. There are good reasons and bad reasons for choosing a pen name. First, the good reasons for using a pen name. You may have a legitimate reason to mask your identity. Some writers write in more than one genre. The serious physics professor may not want others to know that he also writes historical romance novels. Another writer may be writing on a topic that could endanger her reputation or day job. A sensitive topic may also lead to the use of a pen name. No one wants demonstrations that will upset the neighbours — or worse. You may have an unfortunate name. Some names are difficult to spell or pronounce. In today’s society, this is less of a concern as it once was, but it remains a legitimate reason to write under a pseudonym. Some names just don’t fit some genres, and some names are open to misunderstanding. Some names come too close for comfort to other well-known characters. If you enjoy humour, let me recommend No Relation by Terry Fallis, a story of a host of people who could fall into this category. Now for the bad reasons to use a pen name. Some people opt for pen names to avoid legal action or taxes. A pen name does not relieve you of your legal responsibilities. If you decide to use a pen name, contact a lawyer to be sure you have considered all the ramifications. You will still want your money, so you must also talk with your bank. Using a pen name often means you cannot do book signings, which may cut back on sales. Whoever you are to your readers, I’d love to see your work when you are ready for an edit. Remember that until the end of this year, there is an excellent offer for my sample edit. https://www.writershelper.com/Editors_Notes-274.html =========== 2.Tickled my funny bone Nostalgia isn't what it used to be. =========== 3. Interesting Web site For a little light reading, enjoy ten itty bitty stories about why each of these famous authors used a pen name. http://flavorwire.com/277632/10-odd-stories-behind-famous-authors-nom-de-plumes =========== 4. Writing prompt Flip through a newspaper or a magazine looking for interesting headlines. When you find one, write it down, but don’t read the article. Instead write one that fits the headline. I’d love to see what you come up with. =========== 5. A special offer I am a book designer in Victoria BC, Canada and I would like to work with you to design your book! I have over 6 years experience in graphic design and I am looking to work with independent authors. Services include: Cover Design, Typesetting, eBook Design, Bookmarks, Business Cards, Createspace & KDP Management, and Author Websites. Exclusive deals for subscribers of Editor’s Note, email sjbarnesdesign@gmail.com to find out more. =========== Join Writer's Helper Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/WritersHelperEditor Follow me on Twitter @AudreytheEditor Link on LinkedIn https://ca.linkedin.com/in/audreyowen (Email me first so I know how you know me.) =========== If you know a writer who would appreciate receiving Editor's Notes, forward this issue. If someone has passed this on to you, you can get your own free subscription by signing up at https://www.writershelper.com/newsletter.html |
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