Mystical Spring

Wonderful Name

What’s in a name? Why is it that names of characters in books are so important for writers to get right? Are names really that important?

As I struggle to begin a new novel (this time a YA book I’ve been thinking about for awhile) I am at a loss as to what to call my main character. So many decisions to be made quickly that will impact the entire story!

Should it be male or female? Should the name be distinctly American or more blended to include an audience that is global? If a male is called by a Polish name, does it mean they are Catholic since Poland is considered a mostly Catholic country? The most Catholic in the EU?

What we call our characters, as well as our children, will mark them for life and in this case, the life of the book and story. Writers must be careful. We must be vigilant to every nuance that a name implies.

In this regard, I wonder how Mary felt when told in the gospel of Matthew by Joseph that the baby she would carry was to be called Jesus? Would she have said, “oh that’s a nice name.” Or would she have protested just a little and say, “but I always wanted a child with the name of Samuel?”

Jesus, with his life, death, resurrection, but more importantly through his love, provided a name greater than all names. He could have been called George or Jeff, Raymond or Samuel, Ahmad or Jeremiah.

It wasn’t just about his name. It was also about his life.

What Jesus demonstrated to us through his life proved far more powerful than mere words or chosen names. At the name of Jesus we associate Love, Compassion, Generosity, Kindness, Patience, Steadfastness, and Truth telling.

At the name of Jesus, we associate the highest level of these virtues and values.

What is it that you and others associate with your name?

What name do you want to be remembered for?

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