What Is a Pseudonym? The definition of a pseudonym (or nom de plume in French) is
a fake name used by a writer when writing and publishing their work in order to protect themselves or increase the chance of success
.
Is it illegal to use a pseudonym?
Authors can publish under a pseudonym (aka “pen name”) without legal problems as long as the author complies with applicable laws and regulations (if any) and
doesn’t use the pseudonym for fraud or other illegal purposes
.
What is the purpose of having pen names?
A pen name becomes a sort of shield,
allowing the author to conceal his or her identity
, shake off any pre-conceived notions, internal or external, and to write freely in the genre of his or her choice. As a general rule, most authors should publish under their legal, given name.
How does a pseudonym work?
A pseudonym, also known as a pen name or nom de plume, is a
fictitious name that a writer or author uses instead of his or her real name
. A pen name is listed as the author’s name on a published book, and readers often do not know the real name or identity of the author.
Why did JK Rowling write under a pseudonym?
After
Robert Galbraith
was revealed to be a pseudonym for Rowling, the author claimed the inspiration for the name was a combination for the late Robert F. Kennedy and “Ella Galbraith,” a name she made up for herself in her youth. … Be that as it may, the name had a fascination for me.”
Why you shouldn’t use a pen name?
Pen names can
complicate social gatherings
, especially if you forget and introduce yourself to someone under your given name, or fail to respond when someone calls you by your pen name. Also, conferences and signings may become challenging if you’re juggling two names.
Can I use a fake name online?
People use fake names on the Internet all the time
—but that doesn’t make it legal. Whether for Facebook accounts, Xbox Live, or a pointless survey that your friend asked you to fill out, using a fake name online in any capacity could get you arrested.
What should my pseudonym be?
Choosing a pseudonym can be as daunting as naming a character, especially since the character is you. The simplest pen name would be
a variation of your own name
, such as a middle name, nickname, or initials. Many authors change only their last name so they don’t have to remember what first name to use at conferences.
Why do female writers use pseudonyms?
Many female writers have adopted male nom de plumes, or otherwise gender-ambiguous pseudonyms, for a number of reasons: to publish without prejudice in male-dominated circles;
to experiment with the freedom of anonymity
; or to encourage male readership.
A pseudonym
is a fictitious name taken by a writer in place of their real name. The term “pseudonym” is a Greek word that literally means “false name.”
Do I have to publish under my legal name?
Legally and
morally there is no issue
. Whether changing your name is wise depends on your subject and the databases used in that subject.
How do you copyright a pseudonym?
You can register a manuscript under
a pen name at the copyright office
(www.copyright.gov). You’ll have to provide some information, including your real address. But if you really want to keep your true identity under wraps, set up a post office box and have information from the office sent there.
Why is J.K. Rowling called Rowling?
J.K. Rowling was born Joanne Rowling.
After her publisher recommended she use a gender-neutral pen name, she chose J.K., adding the middle name Kathleen
. She published her crime fiction series, which includes The Cuckoo’s Calling, under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith.
Where does J.K. Rowling currently live?
J.K. Rowling lives
near Edinburgh, Scotland
, with her husband, Dr. Neil Murray, and their two children, David and Mackenzie. It was in Scotland that J.K. Rowling dreamt up the magical wizarding world of “Harry Potter.”
What does the JK stand for in her pen name?
While explaining why she writes under her initials, J.K. — whose real name
is Joanne
— revealed: “My publisher, who published Harry Potter, they said to me, we think this is a book that will appeal to boys and girls.
