A Nom de Plume is a French term that translates to “pen name” in English. It refers to a fictitious name that a writer uses instead of their real name. Authors adopt noms de plume for various reasons, including privacy, creating an alter ego, or marketing purposes.
Definition
The term nom de plume (pronounced: \ˈnäm-də-ˈplüm) literally means “name of the pen” in French. A nom de plume is an alias or pseudonym used by an author to conceal their true identity. Similar terms include pen name and pseudonym.
Types of Noms de Plume
Anonymity
Many writers choose a nom de plume to maintain their anonymity. This allows them to separate their personal lives from their professional writing careers.
Gender Neutrality
Some authors adopt a nom de plume to mask their gender, especially if they believe their gender may affect the reception of their work. For example, Mary Ann Evans wrote under the pen name George Eliot.
Genre Flexibility
Authors who write in multiple genres may use different noms de plume for each genre to create distinct brand identities. For example, Nora Roberts writes romance novels under her own name but uses the pseudonym J.D. Robb for her mystery novels.
Historical Context
Origins
The practice of using noms de plume dates back centuries. Early instances can be found in the classical world, where authors often took on pseudonyms to detach their work from their social standing.
Notable Examples
- Mark Twain: Samuel Clemens adopted this pen name, which is a term from his riverboat piloting days.
- George Orwell: Eric Arthur Blair used this pseudonym to avoid prejudices associated with his true identity.
- J.K. Rowling: Joanne Rowling published under this name to appeal to a broader audience, later adopting the nom de plume Robert Galbraith for her crime novels.
Applicability
Privacy and Safety
Writers often choose noms de plume to protect their privacy and personal safety, especially if their work covers sensitive or controversial topics.
Marketability
A carefully selected nom de plume can enhance an author’s marketability. Names that are easier to remember or more evocative can help in creating a stronger brand.
Comparisons with Related Terms
- Pseudonym
- A fictitious name used by anyone, not limited to writers.
- Alias
- Generally refers to an alternative name used by anyone, often implying some degree of secrecy.
- Stage Name
- Used by performers in theatre, music, or movies.
FAQs
Why do authors use noms de plume?
Can an author have more than one nom de plume?
Are there legal implications for using a nom de plume?
Final Summary
A nom de plume is a pen name that offers writers a way to conceal their true identity, appeal to broader audiences, and enhance their marketability. From historical usage to modern-day practices, noms de plume serve various functional and creative purposes in the literary world.
References
- “Why Authors Use Pseudonyms”, ThoughtCo.
- “Pen Name vs. Real Name: The Pros and Cons of Using a Pseudonym”, Writer’s Digest.
- ““Nom de Plume”, Encyclopaedia Britannica.
