Are you considering writing under a pen name? A pen name, or a pseudonym, is when you use a made-up name when publishing your work. Many authors use a pen name and it’s for a variety of reasons, such as branding, privacy, to disguise race or gender, and more. If you are trying to decide if you want to go the pen name route, we’re here to help! Below, we go over the pros and cons of writing under a pen name.
Pros Of Using A Pen Name
1. Privacy
Having privacy is typically the most popular reason why writers choose to use a pen name. Sometimes, having the freedom to write whatever you want to write without the worry of judgment is a nice feeling. Especially if your content is a little more on the risque side and you don’t want your job, friends, or family to see it. Using a pen name also protects you if you want to write without necessarily being in the limelight.
2. Branding
Being consistent with branding is important to many writers, and this includes their name. Writing a dark thriller and having a sweet name doesn’t flow well, so some writers feel like their pen name should reflect their brand.
3. Genre Flexibility
Are you interested in writing more genres than just one? Having different pen names can give you the freedom to step out of the box and write different genres without confusing your fans.
Cons Of Using A Pen Name
1. Lack Of Credit
While being in the limelight isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, it’s still nice to get recognition for all your hard work. If having the satisfaction of seeing your name on the cover of your book is important to you, using a pen name that’s far from your name probably wouldn’t be up your alley.
2. Persona Confusion
When you have multiple pen names, it can be challenging to bounce back and forth from each genre. When you’re trying to promote or do an interview for your sweet romance books and then turn around and do the same for your dark thriller books, it can get confusing for you. Each genre requires different needs and between these two genres, they couldn’t be more opposite. You have to get in the mindset of your book and the genre you’re writing for when promoting. It will likely take time and practice to properly tap into each persona.
3. Copyright Issues
When it comes to copyright, you have the option to leave your real name out of the record. However, it makes proving ownership more challenging. If you put your name on the record, there’s a chance of your identity being released.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, pen names are right for some writers but they may not be for everyone – and that’s okay! It’s up to you to decide if this is the right route for you to take by weighing the pros and cons.
Regardless if you go with a pen name or use your real name, you need a cool email signature template to promote your book, name, and website when you send your fans emails. With Book Brush, you can edit and create a neat email signature to get your name or pen name out there and get your book noticed.
