The Names by Florence Knapp is a collection of short stories that delve into personal identity and introspection. Each narrative explores characters' experiences as they navigate relationships, societal roles, and self-discovery. The stories provoke thought about the complexities of names and identities within diverse social and cultural contexts.

Nostalgic / Serene / Contemplative / Emotional

**Cora Atkin**  
A former ballet dancer of Irish descent, whose life from young motherhood to late adulthood is central to the narrative. Her initial decision about her son's name sets the novel's events into motion.

**Bear Atkin**  
Cora's son, named in one of her possible choices, who grows up to have a warm and adventurous life. He embodies a departure from the family's generational cycles.

**Julian Atkin**  
Another possible name for Cora's son, representing her aspirations for him to transcend his father's legacy. Julian's storyline is marked by creativity and a journey to overcome his family's past.

**Gordon Atkin Jr.**  
Cora's son in the narrative where she yields to her husband's wishes for a namesake. He undergoes significant personal transformation despite early negative influences.

**Maia Atkin**  
Cora and Gordon's daughter, who is portrayed as empathetic and mature beyond her years. Her life is profoundly affected by her mother's decisions and the family's dynamics.

**Gordon Atkin Sr.**  
Cora's husband and the primary antagonist of the novel, outwardly charming but deeply controlling and abusive, shaping the lives of his family.

Study Guide

Book Brief

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Book Brief The Names

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Overview

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The Names Summary and Study Guide

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Content Warning: This section features depictions of physical and emotional abuse.

Background

The Names Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “1987”

Prologue-Part 1

The Names Prologue-Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Seven Years Later, 1994”

Part 2 The Names Part 2 Summary & Analysis

Content Warning: This section features depictions of physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual violence, and misogynistic slurs.

Part 3: “Seven Years Later, 2001”

Part 3 The Names Part 3 Summary & Analysis

Content Warning: This section features depictions of emotional abuse and anti-gay bias.

Part 4: “Seven Years Later, 2008”

Part 4 The Names Part 4 Summary & Analysis

Content Warning: This section features depictions of emotional abuse, physical abuse, anti-gay bias, graphic violence, and addiction.

Part 5: “Seven Years Later, 2015”

Part 5 The Names Part 5 Summary & Analysis

Part 6: “Seven Years Later, 2022”

Part 6-Epilogue

The Names Part 6-Epilogue Summary & Analysis

character

Content Warning: This section features depictions of physical abuse, emotional abuse, addiction, sexual violence, and anti-gay bias.

Character Analysis

The Names Character Analysis

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The Names

Book Brief

The Names

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