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 .
What is the purpose of a pseudonym?
A pen name may be used specifically to hide the identity of the author , as with exposé books about espionage or crime, or explicit erotic fiction. Some prolific authors adopt a pseudonym to disguise the extent of their published output, e. g. Stephen King writing as Richard Bachman.
When should you use a pseudonym?
- Your writing could interfere with other aspects of your career. ...
- You write in more than one genre or field. ...
- You write in a genre that has “expectations” about its authors. ...
- You have a history of failure. ...
- You have the same name as an existing author.
Why did he adopt a pseudonym?
GEORGE ORWELLWhen Eric Arthur Blair was getting ready to publish his first book, Down and Out in Paris and London, he decided to use a pen name so his family wouldn’t be embarrassed by his time in poverty. He chose the name George Orwell to reflect his love of English tradition and landscape .
Is it good to have a pseudonym?
To use or not use a pen name or pseudonym is a personal choice. There’s not really a right or wrong answer on this —unless you do share a name with a well-known author and/or celebrity. Just remember: If you do use one, be ready to take on that new persona (even if it’s very similar to your actual identity).
Is it legal to use a fake name?
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 do you call a fake name?
A pseudonym is a false or fictitious name, especially one used by an author. When an author uses a pseudonym, it can also be called a pen name or a nom de plume.
Why you should not 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.
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.
Can you publish a book under a fake name?
Yes, authors can self-publish using their pen name or nom de plume . If you’re self-publishing a book, you can definitely use a pseudonym when writing and publishing your book. In fact, many indie authors use a pseudonym or nom de plume when they publish books in several different genres.
What was Charles Dickens pen name?
Charles Dickens
After Dickens was revealed to be “ The Inimitable Boz ,” he dropped the “Boz” but continued to be known as “The Inimitable.”
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.”
Should I use a pseudonym online?
A pseudonym is not useless. Using one can help your privacy in several ways. ... Eschewing search results is often a major motivator for using a pseudonym. I know many teachers who use fake names online because they don’t want their students to know about their personal lives no matter how uncontroversial they may be.
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.
How do artists use pseudonyms?
- Add an initial. ...
- Combine your names. ...
- Use a different part of your name. ...
- Play with words and translations. ...
- Remove some syllables. ...
- Think about what style of work you are creating and who your audience is. ...
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