Pseudonym or No?

Hey everyone so thanks for stopping in. Would you do a pen name? Should you do a pen name? That depends on you as usual. I have pen names. Some authors/artists prefer a pen name to keep their identity more private. Others do pen names for the fun of it and the mystery aspect. Also multiple pen names helps keep separate genres if you are worried about that.

So should you do one? I’d encourage it if you want to try something different or new. If you do one think of a catchy and simple name to go under. If you use your own make sure you like it enough to leave it on your project. A name to be proud of that has a ring to it. Some people choose a pen name because their regular name is complicated to pronounce or spell. You can combined a fake name with your real one, mix and match. You can use both your real and pseudonym if you have two names that really set well with you. It doesn’t have to be for different genres it can be for same one, and just means you are in competition with yourself as well.

If you feel comfortable with it, go for it. Use ten names if that is fun for you. Initials are a popular choice as well. Your name establishes itself over time, it might be six months or ten years. It turns into a brand of sorts and can eventually resonate with an audience of people. All sorts of artists and performers use stage names. Writers are no exception. Just think it through and if you like a particular name besides your own use it. If you are worried about it, get a couple opinions on the name or several names before choosing one. If it feel right to you and just calls to you, use it. The final choice is your own because it is your own brand that you are creating.

Thanks for reading, what do you think or prefer? A pen name or no?

-Sterling