Names
M and S, I never thought much about names until the two of you were born.
Chinese names are often meant as wishes. My brother-in-law’s name translates to independence, and he is, to a fault, always taking the weight of the world on his shoulders, not inclined to share the burden.
My name was supposed to be the characters for “will achieve greatness”, but was somehow misheard and miswritten by the hospital as “great at writing”. And somehow writing was what I loved and turned into a profession.
In Chinese culture, a generation is supposed to share a middle name. My brothers and I don’t – we share the last name instead – perhaps that’s why we were never close.
M, your mother pounced on your name without hesitation and refused to budge. I had another name in mind, but no, she was sure. And when you were born, it fitted you perfectly.
S, your mother wanted to name you Yue, which means happiness. But Chinese astrology said it was unsuitable, and we gave you an auspicious name that means “wisdom” instead. Still, I hope you remember it as your mother’s wish for you to be happy.
In the Earthsea books by Ursula Le Guin, everyone has two names. A use name is given by their parents. But their real names are uncovered when they grow up. We have given you your use names. Your true names are up to you to discover.