Familiar animal names in fantasy novels can also serve as a shorthand for certain concepts. A snake, for instance, might be used to represent slyness or danger. It's a quick and effective way to convey a particular idea without having to explain it in great detail. This allows the writer to focus on other aspects of the story while still getting the message across about the nature of a particular creature in the fantasy world.
It helps readers to easily visualize the characters. Since they are already familiar with the animals, they can quickly form a mental image. For example, if you mention a 'wolf', readers will immediately think of its general appearance and some of its known behaviors like hunting in packs.
Using familiar animal names can create an emotional connection. People often have pre - existing feelings towards animals. If you write about a gentle deer - like creature, readers might feel a sense of tenderness towards it right away. This can enhance the overall emotional impact of the story.
One way is to give them new and magical abilities. For example, make a common cat into a shape - shifting familiar that can transform into different forms to help the protagonist. Another is to use them as symbols of certain traits. A loyal dog - like creature could represent unwavering loyalty in the story.
Using names in your story makes the story more personal. When characters are named, they seem more real. It also helps in creating a connection between the reader and the character. Like when you read a name repeatedly, you start to feel like you know the character better.
One benefit is it can add mystery. For example, if a character is named 'The Shadow' instead of a common name like 'John', it immediately makes the character seem more elusive and interesting. It also helps to distinguish characters clearly. If you have two characters who are similar in some ways, different names make it easier for the reader to tell them apart. Moreover, different names can be used to represent different cultures or time periods in the story. For instance, a character named 'Akira' might suggest a Japanese setting or origin, which can help set the cultural context of the story.
The use of family names in stories can enhance the world - building aspect. It can be a part of the fictional society's naming conventions. If the story is set in a place where family names have a particular order or meaning, it adds a layer of realism. For example, in some cultures, the family name comes first, and this can be incorporated into the story's narrative to make it more immersive. Also, family names can be used to create family legacies. A character might be trying to uphold or break free from the reputation associated with their family name.
One benefit is authenticity. For example, if your story is set in modern - day New York, mentioning well - known brands like Starbucks or Macy's makes the setting feel more real. Another benefit is that it can help readers better visualize the story. If a character is wearing a Nike hoodie, readers can more easily picture the character's appearance.
Using proper names in fiction can make the characters more vivid and real. For example, a unique name can immediately give the reader an impression of the character's personality or background. It also helps in creating a more immersive world. If a story is set in a fictional town with a proper name like 'Willowbrook', it feels more tangible than just saying 'a small town'.
Using mythology in fantasy novels can make the story seem more epic. Mythological elements often have a grandeur about them. It also helps in character development. For example, if a character is based on a mythological hero, they inherit some of the qualities associated with that hero. This gives an easy starting point for developing the character's personality and backstory. And it can attract a wider audience, especially those interested in mythology.
Using unique names in a story makes the characters stand out. It helps the readers to easily distinguish one character from another. For example, if you have two characters named 'John' and 'Michael' which are very common names, it can be confusing. But if you have 'Astrid' and 'Zephyr', they are much more distinct.
It saves time. Instead of spending hours thinking of a name, you can quickly get one from 'random names for stories'.
Using real university names in a novel can add a sense of realism. Readers are familiar with certain universities and their reputations. When you mention a real university like Oxford, it immediately gives the story a certain prestige. It can also help in building a connection with the reader. If a reader has visited or has some connection to the university, they will feel more engaged with the story. Moreover, it can save the author time in creating a fictional university as they can rely on the existing image and characteristics of the real university.