Since I've had great feedback on my "Save Time Research Online" articles, I thought I'd do a few more. In this one, I'm focusing on names. As writers we know the importance of choosing the right name for our characters. A name often gives a reader a certain image, sometimes good, sometimes not so good.
For instance, when I read the name Biff I usually picture a guy who's very muscular and has a low IQ (no offense intended to anyone who reads this that is either named Biff or knows someone with that name...I admit it's stereotypical, but I can't help my imagination or the image projected by the original connotation found at the Behind The Name website listed below). Since I'm sure I'm not alone, I try to find unique or at least fairly unpopular, inoffensive names for my characters. This doesn't always work, but I try.
Something else I hope you'll keep in mind while reading my thoughts on this matter is that I know plenty of authors who've never had trouble finding the perfect name without research. Like these authors, many times my characters choose their own names and I have no choice in the matter. But sometimes I have a character take shape without a face. I then go to work trying to find the perfect fit among his or her name, values and projected image.
Here's a brief listing (hey, you can't give away all your secrets!) of some places I go online to do my research:
Social Security Online
www.ssa.gov/OACT/babynames/
Baby Zone
www.babyzone.com/babynames/
Last Name Meaning
www.lastnamemeaningorigin.com
Baby Name Wizard
www.babynamewizard.com/namevoyager/lnv0105.html
Behind The Name
www.behindthename.com
There are tons of other sites out there that can help inspire you. But I caution everyone to keep in mind that not all sites are authorities on their subject matter. Anyone can upload anything to the web. So for your own peace of mind be sure to add your gut feeling, your own character inspiration, and your imagination into the mix when choosing that perfect name.
