What were Tolkien's reasons for his regret of using real names in fiction?

He might have been more cautious about using real names. He could have started creating more original names for his characters, places, and things. For example, in later Middle - earth stories, we see a plethora of unique names like Aragorn, Legolas, etc., which are far from any real - world names.

One implication is that it can add a sense of authenticity. For example, if a story is set in Paris, readers who are familiar with Paris can easily visualize the setting. It also helps in creating a connection between the fictional world and the real world. Another aspect is that it can sometimes cause confusion. People might mistake fictional events happening in a real place as real events. However, it can also be a great marketing tool. If a novel mentions a real - world location, it might attract tourists to that place.

One ethical consideration is privacy. Using real names might invade someone's privacy without their consent. For example, if you use a real person's name and portray them in a negative light, it could harm their reputation. Another aspect is potential legal issues. If the use of the name can be seen as slander or libel, there could be legal consequences. Also, it may cause discomfort or distress to the person whose name is being used, even if the portrayal is positive, as they may not want their name associated with fictional events or characters.

One advantage is it adds authenticity. For example, if a story is set in Paris, readers can easily visualize the Eiffel Tower, the Seine, and the cobblestone streets. It also helps in creating a sense of familiarity for readers who know the place. This can draw them more deeply into the story as they can relate their own experiences or knowledge of that location to what's happening in the fiction.

Consent is crucial. If a person gives their consent for their name to be used in a work of fiction, then many of the ethical issues are resolved. But getting that consent might not always be easy. Some people might not understand fully how their name will be used, or they may have conditions. So, the author has to be very clear about their intentions when seeking consent.

Using real store names in fiction may also lead to potential publicity rights issues. Stores have the right to control how their name and brand are presented in the public eye. If your use of the store name gives the impression that the store is endorsing your work when it's not, that could be a legal concern. But if you get permission from the store, then you can use their name without much worry.

One advantage is authenticity. Using real names can make the story feel more grounded in history. For example, if a story is set during the Roman Empire and uses the real names of emperors like Julius Caesar, it helps readers better visualize the era. However, a disadvantage could be potential legal issues. If the portrayal of a real - named historical figure is negative and inaccurate, their descendants or those who represent their legacy might take legal action. Also, it might limit the author's creativity as they have to stick to some historical facts related to that person.

One legal implication could be potential defamation. If you use a real name and portray the person in a false and negative light that harms their reputation, they might have a legal case against you. For example, if you write a character with a real person's name and make them out to be a criminal when they're not in real life.

There can be legal implications. If the use of the fictional place name is not properly licensed, there could be copyright or trademark issues. For instance, if a store uses the name of a place from a well - known novel without permission, the author or the rights holder could take legal action. However, if done legally, it can be a great marketing strategy as it gives the store an air of mystery and fantasy.

It can limit creativity to some extent. Since real places come with pre - existing images and ideas, it might be harder to create a completely unique and fantastical world within that real - named location. For instance, if you set a story in a small town known for its peaceful nature, it's challenging to suddenly make it a hub of intergalactic battles without losing some of the believability associated with the real place name.