What S in a Name? s1

English 31

Song of Solomon

What’s in a Name?

“Surely, he [Macon] thought, he and his sister had some ancestor, some lithe young man with onyx skin and legs as straight as cane stalks, who had a name that was real. A name given to him at birth with love and seriousness. A name that was not a joke, nor a disguise, nor a brand name” (Morrison 17).

In Song of Solomon, Toni Morrison focuses on the power and significance of naming. Who historically has had the power to name groups, places, trends, and even individuals? Why are names so significant? How does Morrison perceive the power of names and naming? How do you? (your thesis will respond to some of these questions)

Name research:

Spend some time looking into your own name (first, middle, last) and learn as much as you can about its origin, meaning and significance.

-  interview relatives (parents, godparents, guardians, relatives, etc.) and conduct library and internet research (primary and secondary sources)

-  write notes about your name

-  in class, we will all give a short (approx.. 2-3 minutes) presentation on our names

-  be sure to conclude with a reflection about what you learned about your name—did you know this information before? Did it surprise you? Do you feel proud, unsettled, more connected to ancestors, more unique, etc.?

Some questions to consider:

* Who named you? Why that individual? Why that name?

*Language of origin? Original spelling? Meaning in that language?

*Is there a family “story” behind your name?

*Is there cultural or religious significance to your name?

*Is there mythological or historical significance to your name?

*Is your name culturally or commercially popular? Unique?

*Who else in your family shares your name?

*Do you have a nickname? From where did it come?

*How do you feel about your name?