My Life As Kyle (ONC Entry)

What's In A Name

You probably know me as Kyle, I've written a few books, but as you might have guessed that's not my real name. My real name is longer and harder to remember.

For a long time I disliked my name because of how complicated it was. No one would remember it. People constantly called me "Matt," "Sam," "Jack," "Andy," and even threw in a couple "Beth" and "Mindys." I soon started responding to everything.

I wanted a nickname that would make things easier, but it just didn't work out. Any non-name related nicknames, like "The Beast," where turned into jokes. In fact, every nickname turned into a joke—mostly connected to my appearance. Most not clever, like "Four Eyes," "Tin Mouth," or "Small Foot."

I couldn't even use my initials because that was a joke too—thanks Grandpa.

Once I started writing, I did so under my real name. I guess I had some kind of odd pride in it. It was my name after all. My stories went nowhere. My real name was too forgetful for readers. So, I tried the "Kyle" pen name. The first book I submitted with that name was selected for publication. WHOOO! But also, boo! I felt like people didn't want me—they wanted some "character."

It was the same thing with applying for jobs. My name was just too forgettable. I was often tempted to use my pen name and see if I would have better luck.

Years passed and I started up a business as an author. Now, people were calling me by my pen name all the time because that was my brand. The ironic twist is that by that time, I'd finally accepted my real name. I no longer had this strange love-hate relationship with it. And now everyone was calling me "Kyle."

Life can be strange.

***

I removed my fingers from the keyboard; I glanced at the chapter. It seemed good. I'm sure there were some mistakes, but it was good for a rough draft.

The neon sign buzzed and flickered again. The patrons and staff froze; and once again, turned towards the sign. I ignored them, deciding to look out the window next to my booth. It was a dark night, a few stars were visible. Mist settled upon the land. No one was outside. It seemed as though everyone was here, drawn to the light and warmth of the diner.

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