I read this essay “Why Writers Need Pen Names” by Wade Rouse published in PW magazine. He explains his reasons for using a pen name for his first novel, The Charm Bracelet. The story is centered around a charm bracelet similar to one his grandmother wore. He uses his grandmother’s name as his pen name in her honor. He explores other well know pen names such as JK Rowling and JD Robb.

Having a pen name is freeing. JD Robb and JK Rowling tried new genres their main audiences might not appreciate. I can tell stories as someone else outside my roles of wife, sister, daughter or friend. As this other person, a writer, my characters can speak in a language I don’t know, use swear words I cringe to say, or go through experiences I may relate to but never have.

My friend and critique partner who writes as Lorraine Tate said it best. “A pen name silences the critic in your head. The one who imagines what your friends or your relatives or your church members might think.”

What do you think?