Manifesto: C is for…

Working my way through the alphabet via the A-to-Z blogging challenge, I’m writing a manifesto and working with unusual words.

Today let’s talk cryptonyms.  Cryptonym is defined as a secret name or word; or a code name or code word.  We often think of governments and militaries using cryptonyms to refer to secret projects or creating code names for covert actions, but that’s such a limiting perspective.

I love naming things.  Why not add a layer of mystery and intrigue or simply playfulness to our naming practices?  Using a cryptonym to refer to a project can be quite amusing and can invoke a whole new set of energies.

Of La Lif is the cryptonym of a book project I’m working on and it makes me smile every time I think of it.  Wore Herb Bead and Hoard Bee Brew are cryptonyms I use to refer to myself; happen to be anagrams of my name; and are perfect descriptives of me, as I both create herbal beads and I delight in honey.

Today I decided Crowfeather Valentine is a charming cryptonym for a new project I’m about to begin.  While I find it both pleasing and entertaining to come up with names for things, there is actually a cryptonym generator that allows you to choose three categories and then creates a code name for you.  Check it out here.   Using it generated Cinereous Thistle Olive for me, and I’m already imagining a number of ways I can use it.

I believe there is power in naming things I believe cryptonyms can add a layer of fabulousity, a welcome hint of intrigue, and possibly even secret superpowers.  I want more of that in my life.  Don’t you?

What are you naming?  Love codes?  Fascinated and intrigued by the mysterious?  Do tell – you know I love to hear.