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Look at names in online games for creative solutions. They are funny
I am a fantasy writer, so names are especially difficult. And Also, especially critical. It would suck to read a fantasy novel and feel annoyed by the names, I've experienced it and it just shatters the suspension of disbelief. My tactic in my series was to use obscure, but real world names for the characters of the most dominant culture, then try to create a certain feel or certain vibe that remains consistent among the names of other peoples. Look at lord of the rings. Tolkein's genius was in large part due to his understanding of naming people and places. Even within fantasy, we must remember that it is all about authenticity, don't push the reader too far with names that they lose their suspension of d. Like Driz'zt Do'Urden. WTF? Still read the books, but jeez louise.
I suggest if there are obscure names for things to include a pronunciation guide and perhaps their meaning if it is important to understanding what is going on in the story.
http://www.20000-names.com/I like this site because you can find names that are common or originated in certain parts of the world, which is helpful when you're considering the origin of your characters and their heritage :)
Ji Mei ^_^ wrote: "I suggest if there are obscure names for things to include a pronunciation guide and perhaps their meaning if it is important to understanding what is going on in the story."
In 'Death of Kings' Bernard Cornwell provides such a list and the reasons for choosing the particular one he uses where there are multiple versions.
In 'Death of Kings' Bernard Cornwell provides such a list and the reasons for choosing the particular one he uses where there are multiple versions.
I actually recently recieved some negative feedback about the names in my book. I think it mostly stems from having a dragon named Pete... But he's named after a horse I liked a lot.
Well, I guess it depends what context the name is and whether there is comedy and such. If you have a lot of battle, blood, and gore, Pete doesn't really sound suiting. It might be even seem comical to readers. I personally hate Katniss and Peeta's names because they are so silly sounding to me, but others love those names. I guess it depends on the reader.
http://babynamesworld.parentsconnect....