Something I’m now writing is causing me to consider using a
pen name. The writing is somewhat dark, maybe Poe-esque, and I don’t want to
put my family in the situation of needing to disclaim relationship.*
My favorite pen name is Ayn Rand. This is mainly because I
like the spelling of the first name. So innovative, but sophisticated.
Most of the pen names I like best have one-syllable first
and last names: Ayn Rand, Mark Twain, Stan Lee, Bell Hooks. These roll easily
off of the tongue.
I don’t care for single names or initials (BB, Boz, Elia)
or names that would make readers instantly think of Germany (guttural = not good).
So far my creative juices are not flowing, so I could use
a little help. Unfortunately, if I use a pen name suggested by someone else,
that could set up a blackmail scenairo. (A million or I’ll tell.)
So back to listening and researching. It may take longer
to decide on a pen name than to write my novella.
* Not bad and shameful, just a little dark and depressing - a reflection of me, maybe.
