You can also provide some context or pronunciation guide. Maybe add a short description like 'Marie, pronounced Ma - ree in French'. This can prevent readers from mispronouncing the name in their heads and helps them better engage with the character. Another approach could be to use a more familiar form for easier readability, but this should be done sparingly to avoid losing the foreign flavor.
When handling foreign names in fiction, it's important to be consistent. If you choose to Anglicize a name for the sake of simplicity in some parts of the story, make sure to do it throughout. Also, consider the cultural significance of the name. For instance, in some cultures, names have specific meanings related to family, religion or nature. Incorporating this knowledge into how you present the character can add depth to your fictional creation. For example, a Japanese character named 'Haruki' which might mean 'spring tree'. You could subtly hint at this meaning through the character's personality or the story's setting.
If getting consent isn't possible, they should fictionalize the name enough so that it's not recognizable as a real person. For instance, change a few letters or use a similar - sounding name. Also, they should avoid basing the character's actions or traits on the real person in a way that could cause harm or misrepresentation.
To handle flashbacks effectively, you need to make sure they have a clear purpose. They should provide crucial background info or deepen the character's development. Also, the transition to and from the flashback should be smooth to avoid confusing the reader.
One challenge is pronunciation. Writers might not be sure how to guide readers on the correct pronunciation. For example, with a name like 'Szymon' from Polish, it can be difficult to convey the right way to say it.
When it comes to writing fiction, it's best to steer clear of ableism. Focus on creating diverse and inclusive characters without resorting to stereotypes or discrimination based on abilities. This not only makes for a more empathetic story but also respects the experiences of all readers.
The key to dealing with criticism on fiction writing is to have an open mind. Don't immediately reject it. Try to understand where the critic is coming from and see if you can learn from it. Maybe make a list of the suggestions and think about how you could implement them to make your writing better.
One way is to consider the origin and meaning of the name. If your story has a certain cultural setting, like a French - inspired story, names like Amélie or Camille can be great. Amélie gives a sense of quirkiness and Camille has a sophisticated air. Also, think about the sound of the name. A name like Ava has a short and sweet sound that can be easily remembered by readers.
The key is to make the language natural and engaging. Use vivid words and vary sentence structures to keep the readers hooked.
You need to understand the backgrounds and values of each character. Make sure their actions and decisions are consistent with their individual ethics and the overall story context.
You need to give both characters distinct personalities and arcs. Make sure their goals and conflicts interact and drive the story forward.
I think you need to be super careful. Don't glorify or downplay it. Just show it realistically and explore its impact.