The Art of a Perfect Title

The title of your novel is your book's first impression, a glimpse into the world you've created. For many authors, finding that perfect title feels like a magical moment where the heart of the story is captured in just a few words. But how do you get there?

A great title does more than attract attention—it conveys the essence of the story. Some of the best titles contain hidden meanings, subtle Easter eggs, or foreshadow major events. These layers of meaning can be a delightful surprise for readers when they finish the book and realize the full significance of the title. But don't think that getting to that point is always easy.

One way to create a meaningful title is to consider key moments or symbols in your novel. Is there a phrase or image that ties the story together? For example, The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins immediately evokes a sense of survival and competition, capturing the book's dystopian essence. Similarly, To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee references a seemingly small detail in the story that holds deeper moral weight as the novel unfolds, reflecting themes of innocence and justice.

One of my personal favorites, The Empyrean series by Rebecca Yarros, has creatively chosen titles to reflect the themes of power, ambition, and inner strength that run through the narrative.

Let’s take Fourth Wing as an example. At first glance, the title suggests something related to flight, connecting to dragons, which are obviously central to the story. However, the title takes on greater significance as the protagonist, Violet Sorrengail, struggles to navigate a treacherous world filled with political intrigue, military alliances, and personal growth. The "Fourth Wing" could symbolize not just her position in rank under the Fourth Wing's Wingleader but highlighting Violet's role as an emerging force of power, gaining strength and freedom in a world dominated by rigid rules and expectations.

This title also works as a subtle foreshadowing of Violet’s rise through the ranks, hinting at her eventual place among the elite, both in terms of dragon riders and personal power. The layers of meaning hidden within the title become clearer as readers dive deeper into the story, rewarding those who catch the connection between the name and Violet’s journey toward claiming her own power.

Like in other great novels, Yarros masterfully weaves together title, plot, and character development, creating a cohesive and symbolic framework that resonates with readers long after the final page.

So as you brainstorm your title, remember to think beyond the obvious. Look for themes, symbols, or significant phrases that can hint at your novel’s deeper message. Don't be afraid to change it either. Brainstorming may look like choosing a placeholder while you write your final twist, or even a reoccurring phrase that has deeper meaning. A well-chosen title can elevate your book, making it memorable and meaningful for readers long after they’ve turned the last page, and even creating a lasting legacy.