To Be or Not To Be

The Bard said “What’s in a name? that which we call a rose By any other name would smell as sweet.” Now I’m not sure I agree with that statement as some roses have no fragrance at all. I prefer to think a rose by any other name would still be as beautiful to be more accurate. American Beauty, Queen Ann, Peace, Fourth of July, Purple Passion, and Oranges & Lemons are varieties of roses. Different names but all roses.

So what’s in a name for authors? The question is posed during the question and answer session at writers’ conferences. Should I use a pen name? The answer is not always simple. While there are valid reasons to have a pen name, for the most part they are not necessary.

If an author writes more than one genre, a pen name might be a wise move. For example, a fan of a well-known romance writer purchases the new novel expecting an exceptional love story. Instead, the novel is a graphic murder mystery. Such a jarring departure from the expected might harm the author’s reputation as a romance writer. In this instance, a pen name might be a valid choice.

When an author’s name is not considered easily marketable, an agent or editor might suggest a pseudonym. Sometimes the writer chooses a nom de plume to hide his or her identity. I wonder what the congregation would say if they learned the minister’s wife wrote erotica. One conference attendee thought a pen name would protect her from possible legal consequences when writing a tell-all book. It will not. An attorney will trace the AKA.

Before making the decision to use a pen name, consider your reasons for wanting the name. If you decide to take a pseudonym, check the laws in your state. Some states require you to register the name as an Also Known As (AKA). Whatever your choice, remember it’s your legal name that must appear on the contract.

Cait Collins