How does this name for a setting sound to you?

vgunn · Sep 23, 2009

Okay, I am (re)writing a series of novels that are Arabian Nights style fantasy. I think I've decided on a name for the world/setting.

Mir'aj (sounds like mirage)

Now, in Islam the word miraj is the second part of a journey taken by the Prophet Muhammad and his ascent into Paradise.

My books, rooted in Arabic tradition, however do not take place on Earth and the people of this world are not Islamic (though many similar traditions and terms).

Most readers will think of an exotic desert setting (which is what I want). At the same time I do not it to be offensive to Muslims. I do not believe this to be the case, but I am running it by as many people as possible for feedback.

So I would like to hear your opinions.

Thanks in advance!

megan_d · Sep 24, 2009

The use of apostophies to make fantasy words seem more exotic is way overdone.

dgiharris · Sep 24, 2009

I like the name Miraj

not a big fan of the apostrophe. I mean, I don't hate it, but it is sort of a 'speed bump' to me since in English we really only use apostrophes as contractions or possessives so my first instinct was to try to figure out what the contraction was...

I think Miraj is fine.

Mel...

Straka · Sep 24, 2009

Either way works for me. Though I think I lean a little more towards Miraj

Kitty Pryde · Sep 24, 2009

I think it would depend on the execution. Check out this really good article: http://www.irosf.com/q/zine/article/10087 I think it will give you some good stuff to ponder.

Re: the word itself, it might put me under the impression that the world isn't real within the universe of your book. Like, your character might step away from it and it would disappear. If that's what you are going for that could work, of course.

vgunn · Sep 24, 2009

megan_d said:
The use of apostophies to make fantasy words seem more exotic is way overdone.

I understand where you are coming from, gratuitous apostrophes in James Clemens Banned and Banished. In this case the ' is one of the few words that this occurs, just happens to be the title. Certainly I could throw it out, however this word IMO does look better with the apostrophe in there. Thanks for the feedback.

vgunn · Sep 24, 2009

Thanks everyone! Great feedback.

Imbroglio · Sep 24, 2009

I'm not really a fan of the apostrophe thing either, but I agree, the word looks better with it.

How does this name for a setting sound to you?

vgunn

megan_d

Falling in the milk

dgiharris

Disgruntled Scientist

Straka

Bored Fanatic

Kitty Pryde

i luv you giant bear statue

vgunn

vgunn

Imbroglio

PERPETUAL EXISTENTIAL CRISIS VICTIM