Message: "Algernon" - Behind the Name

[Opinions] Algernon

by Narinoc (guest)

8/16/2004, 8:42 AM

I was browsing one of my name lists, and came across this name - Algernon. What do you think? The more I think about it, the more I like it. It may sound snobby, but Algie would be a great nn - sounds similar to Alfie or Archie. I'm not sure I'd use it, but I definitely like it!

#Algernon

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- Jessica (jessica_p)

8/16/2004, 5:23 PM

I first heard this name in the book "Flowers for Algernon", which was about a retarded man being used in a test for a cure for mental retardation. Algernon was the name of the mouse used in his testing. The story didn't end well, so that doesn't leave a very pleasant connection with this name.

- poppylena

8/16/2004, 11:15 AM

It's on my list :)

I'd never use it but it's wonderfully eccentric, although Charles Algernon does sound good.

- beata (guest) +4

8/16/2004, 9:18 AM

It reminds me of the book Flowers for Algernon (forgot who wrote it) which is neither good nor bad. I guess you could read it to determine whether that's a good or bad association. I'm not sure what would be a good nn for it, maybe Gerry? I definitely wouldn't use Algie. It sounds like algae!

- Haven (guest) +2

8/16/2004, 9:44 AM

Beata...

Just wanted to say sorry that I switched my LJ to friends only. The entire thing is back to normal now, thankfully. I just wanted to say once again that I appreciated your post.

Haven

- beata (guest) +1

8/16/2004, 9:49 AM

no problem

I read that you had changed it so I hadn't even tried posting anything since. I feel that it's your journal and your choice as to who gets access to it. I understand your decision and don't feel slighted in the least :)

- Haven (guest)

8/16/2004, 10:58 AM

Just to let ya know

its opened up again.

I've changed the settings, so that any comment can not be seen by others until I deem it okay.

Haven

- V. (ars musica)

8/16/2004, 9:36 AM

I have to agree with beata, whenever I hear Algernon I think of "Flowers for Algernon" and the nn Algie makes me think of algae. I don't really like the name though, I think that it does sound snobby and very upper class. I suppose Gerry would be the best nn for Algernon.

- Kara (guest)

8/16/2004, 10:17 AM

This is just not a nice name. It would be very difficult for a child to pronounce...and not just the child that is named this, but their friends. I think there would be much ridicule in the playground!

- auria (guest)

8/16/2004, 8:49 AM

its a neat name for some reason i keep thinking its a name i've heard in something before a movie, book, something.... has anybody else heard it somewhere in passing

- Array (WeloveyouJesseLacey)

8/16/2004, 8:48 AM

It makes me think of Flowers for Algernon, which was sad. :( I liked it, though. It then makes me think of The Importance of Being Earnest, which was not sad, and I liked that, too. Finally, it makes me think of Neville Longbottom's great-uncle in the Harry Potter series--the one who dangled him out a window.

I like it. I think it's very literary, and if you didn't like Algie, there'd be Gerry, Gerny, Alger, and Nonny to fall back on. :)

Array

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