His father thought he had a wond'rous wise look when he was born, and so he named him Solomon, thinking that if indeed he turned out to be wise the name would fit him nicely, whereas, should he be mistaken, and the boy grow up stupid, his name could be easily changed to Simon.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- A name is chosen based on hopes for a child's future traits, with a humorous alternative ready if those hopes fail.
- In plain terms
- Parents named a child for a hoped trait, ready to change it if he was not that way.
- What can you take from it?
- Names reflect expectations that may change.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What does your name say about you?
- Do expectations shape identity?
Another view
Changing a name does not change the person's nature.
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