: Re: What should I do when I am stuck on names during freewriting? If I get hung up choosing a name for a character, should I come back to it later? Or should I try to figure one out? I feel

@Goswami879

Vote Up Vote Down

Have a separate process for writing names:

This is only a suggestion. But an answer to your question, nonetheless. With a separate process, you can spend your energy on writing and focus later on the editing process. Name creation can be seen as an editing process.

Here's an idea to help you:

Yes, you should come back to it later. That's the first thing. As mentioned in other answers, use a temporary name (or some kind of descriptive tag) so that your momentum isn't disrupted by trying to come up with an appropriate name.

Second, think of a simplified meaning for that character. You can use an adjective, attribute, or even the type of person they are or what they represent (a king, a lion, a snake, etc...). Find something that suits them based on who they are in your story.

Third, look up the meaning online. Let's say your character is a regal type. Maybe a name that means "king." You'll get many names to choose from, and also the place of origin for that name.

Fourth (optional), if you really want it to sound different for whatever reason, change it a little. Perhaps the meaning might be difficult for the reader to find out, but you're the author. You can do whatever you want.

Again, this is just one idea, but it is one way to not get stuck when free writing. You can look at it as a tool you can use later and not have to worry about or ruin your momentum in the meantime.

Here's a couple sites that I've found helpful:
www.behindthename.com www.meaning-of-names.com

(0)

Login to post a comment!