First name or last name

Rosie, I would put down just the first name but in brackets say the full name. Does that work?

 

Thanks for all the suggestions, everyone.

I tried it both ways, and went with the first name. Using the last name just didn't look right.

 

I was going to say as long as you have a first reference in there for first and last name, then after that, since it's a column and a tribute at the end of a column (per your first post), it's fine to go with just the first name.

 

Moonlight sounds much less formal than Archibald, and cooler than Archie.

 

Rosie, I don't see the first problem in the world with using the deceased's first name after the first reference ... or another nickname, as long as it's not obscene.

Besides, it's a column. On top of offering your .02 as a tribute, that gives you the professional flexibility needed.

 

No offense, CSC, but that's an awfully weird idea. "Things won't be the same around here without Johnny (John Smith)" Even "Johnny (Smith)."

I think newspaper writers have to assume their readers are not dumb as rocks.

And I think Rosie made the right call -- some writing rules are good. But good writing should trump every rule in the book.

 

Well put.

 

Bingo.

As is the case with all rules.

 

No, <i>you're</i> Schmoopy.

 

What he said.

 

Been there, done that, Rosie. Used the gentleman's first name throughout. It sounds like you had a good relationship with the individual. Do what is right in your heart.

 

WHAT????? HOW COULD YOU DO THAT??? How could you write about a living person as if they were dead???? THAT'S AWFUL!!!!!!! What a disgrace to Yogi!!!!!!

[/Simmons]

Sorry, couldn't resist. Rosie, I think you did the right thing here, if using Mr. wouldn't have worked for whatever reason (and I'm really curious as to what that reason is)